Amgen and Simcere partner to develop and commercialise biosimilars in China

US-based biotechnology company Amgen has entered an exclusive agreement with Chinese firm Simcere Pharmaceutical Group to co-develop and commercialise four biosimilars in China.

Under the partnership, the two companies will work together to develop undisclosed biosimilars in the areas of inflammation and oncology.

Simcere Pharmaceutical Group president Honggang Feng said: "This strategic partnership between a world-renowned biotechnology company and a leading Chinese pharma will help to accelerate development and launch of US and European approved biosimilars in China.

"By leveraging our sales network, it will also help to improve the accessibility of high-quality therapeutic antibodies for Chinese patients.

"This collaboration will allow both companies to further penetrate inflammation and oncology markets in China."

As part of the agreement, Simcere will be responsible for distributing and commercialising the products in China, and Amgen will have a limited right to co-promote the biosimilars.

The products included in the deal are a part of Amgen's existing biosimilars portfolio.

Amgen Japan and Asia-Pacific Region regional vice-president and general manager Penny Wan said: "This agreement furthers Amgen's efforts to reach more patients in Asia by bringing high-quality biosimilars medicines to patients suffering from debilitating and potentially life-threatening conditions.

"We look forward to working with Simcere on these four biosimilar programmes where we can build on their network and experience in China to make a big difference for patients."

Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.