Polpharma Biologics has signed licensing agreements with MS Pharma for the commercialisation of three proposed biosimilars in the Middle East and North Africa. The deal covers vedolizumab (PB016), ocrelizumab (PB018) and guselkumab (PB019), targeting ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis and plaque psoriasis respectively.
Under the agreements, MS Pharma will handle registration, marketing and distribution across the region. Polpharma Biologics will retain responsibility for development, manufacturing and supply. Fill and finish operations will be transferred to MS Pharma’s biologics facility in Saudi Arabia.
Vedolizumab targets α4β7 integrin and is indicated for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Ocrelizumab depletes CD20-positive B cells to reduce inflammation in multiple sclerosis. Guselkumab binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin-23 and is used in plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Kalle Känd, CEO of MS Pharma, said: “Expanding our biosimilar portfolio in high-need therapeutic areas such as gastroenterology, neurology and dermatology is a strategic priority. These three products will significantly strengthen our offering and reinforce our leadership in the MENA region.”
He added: “Partnering once again with Polpharma Biologics underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible biologic medicines to patients across the region, through localising advanced biologics production.”
Konstantin Matentzoglu, Supervisory Board Member of Polpharma Biologics Group, said: “We are proud to extend our collaboration with MS Pharma. Their deep regional expertise and strong commercial network make them an ideal partner to bring our biosimilar medicines to more patients in MENA.”
The partnership aims to improve treatment accessibility and support the sustainability of healthcare systems across the region.
