Glenmark UK, Merck Generics form JV for mktg of 8 products in Europe

Mumbai, July 17 (UNI) Glenmark Pharmaceutical (UK) Ltd [Glenmark UK], a wholly owned subsidiary of Indian pharma major Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Glenmark) and Generics [UK] Limited, a subsidiary of Merck KGaA of Darmstadt, Germany, have signed an agreement for the joint development, filing and marketing of eight generic dermatological products in Europe.

, which have a current annual sales value of around USD 225 Mn in the region.

As per the agreement, Glenmark will develop, manufacture and supply the products, while both the companies would be responsible for their own sales and marketing. The first of these products has already been filed and is targeted to be launched next year. The remaining products would be launched by 2010.

In a statement here today, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Managing Director and CEO Glenn Saldanha was quoted saying, ''We are happy to partner with Merck Generics, which besides being a well-respected global generic pharmaceutical player, also has a strong sales presence in Europe. Moreover, our association is a testament to Glenmark's combined strengths in dermatology and R&D.'' Glenmark President (Europe) Guy Clark said, ''We are excited about our agreement with Merck Generics, which marks Glenmark's first significant deal in the European region.'' The company, which commenced its commercial operations across Europe in 2004, intends to develop and market niche and branded generic products in Europe. The company is also evaluating inorganic growth opportunities including the acquisition of sales and distribution front ends in select high-potential European markets, the release added.

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