JB Chem eyes contract manufacturing deals

PHARMACEUTICALS - I/ THE WTO IMPACT

J B Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals (JBCPL) is in talks with global pharma majors for contract manufacturing for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and formulations.

"We are negotiating with various global pharma majors for contract manufacturing for APIs and formulations. With Indian drug companies setting up bases for the manufacture of APIs and formulations, most overseas generic companies are looking to outsource from here," said Kamlesh Udani, executive director, technical and production, JBCPL.

The company has recently forayed into bio-pharmaceuticals by developing new drugs and commercialising products for therapeutic use. It plans to invest over Rs 40 crore in this division over the next two years.

"Our biotechnology division will be operational in current financial year. We will also develop fermentation technologies for the oncology, cardiology, diabetology, chemotherapy and other therapeutic segments. Backed by an outstanding scientific knowledge pool, strong technological skills and world-class facilities, the company is in a good position to create a bio-technology business that is globally competitive," said Udani.

The company continues to focus on developing its international presence. Its international business contributes 52 per cent of the total revenue.

"Bio-technology will be a key component for our global strategy. We will take advantage of our global presence to market our biopharmaceuticals," said Jay Mehta, vice president, research and development, JBCPL.

The company has recently launched Magnilek - MRI Contrast Media (gadopentate and dimeglumine), a high-tech diagnostic product used for MR angiographies, neurological diseases and diagnosis of cancer patients.

"J B Chemicals has a significant presence in the diagnostics segment under the brand names Trazograf and Lek-Pamidol. Magnilek - MRI Contrast Media has been developed entirely by our in-house R&D division," said Udani.

The total market for diagnostic products in India is estimated at Rs 100 crore of which JBCPL enjoys a 15 per cent share. It aims to raise this to 25 per cent following the launch of its new products.

The company has received final approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration to manufacture and market ciprofloxacin tablets 250 mg, 500 mg and 750 mg. It has also received approval from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) - UK for its tablets manufacturing facility at Panoli, Gujarat.

The company commenced commercial production of tablets at its Daman facility from January. Commercial production of Doktor Mom lozenges at JBCPL's 100 per cent export oriented unit began from September last year.