RCC to set up arm, in buyout talks

RCC Ltd, an independent contract research organization (CRO) based in Switzerland, is setting up a subsidiary in India.

The Swiss firm is in acquisition talks with local CROs to establish a base in the country, which RCC sees as a most strategic location for its business expansion.

Ludwig G Ullman, head, business development & study director, said the company has decided to have a presence in India through a subsidiary.

In an email to Business Standard, Ullmann stated that it was very early to reveal details.

"The company's takeover talks are on with local companies and nothing is finalised yet," he stated. It is learnt that the company is likely to strike a deal in a couple of months and the subsidiary will be launched by this year-end.

RCC Ltd is keen to take over a local clinical research company with credible background and capabilities.

If the company takes this route it can avoid delays on account of regulatory procedures and approvals to initiate its globally relevant projects in India.

RCC, with facilities in Switzerland and Germany, has its core competence in animal studies and toxicology.

With a presence in India, the company would also look forward to better infrastructure to initiate projects for its clients both in India and overseas.