Bengaluru, September 8: In a move that strengthens its foothold in Latin America, Biocon Limited has secured a 10-year partnership agreement to supply breast cancer drug Pertuzumab in Brazil. The agreement, made in collaboration with the Brazilian public pharmaceutical laboratory Bahiafarma and the domestic biotechnology firm Bionovis, grants the consortium exclusive access to the nation’s public healthcare sector.
The consortium received a 100% allocation under the PDP for Pertuzumab, effectively capturing approximately 70% of the total Brazilian demand for the therapy, which is currently met through the public Unified Health System (SUS). Under the contract, Biocon will eventually localise production in a phased manner, under the country’s Productive Development Partnership (PDP) program, a government initiative designed to boost local manufacturing capabilities and reduce the costs of importing complex biological medicines.
Aligning with Brazil’s export substitution aim
Pertuzumab is a critical drug used in the treatment of an aggresive version of HER2-positive breast cancer. While it has been a global standard of care when used in combination with Trastuzumab and chemotherapy, its high cost has historically posed a significant financial burden on Brazil’s public healthcare system. By transitioning to a PDP model, the Brazilian Ministry of Health aims to create a stable supply of this essential drug while reducing costly imports.
Initially, Biocon will supply the drug while working with Bahiafarma and Bionovis to transfer the technology needed for domestic production. This process is expected to enhance Brazil’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities in the high-growth biologics sector, ensuring that life-saving treatments remain accessible to the roughly 70% of the population reliant on the public health system.
“Brazil is an important country for Biocon, and our journey here reflects the transformative potential of strong partnerships in building local capabilities and expanding access to high-quality, affordable medicines. This long-term supply contract for Pertuzumab marks a significant milestone in this journey, enabling us to reach more patients living with HER2-positive breast cancer and address an important healthcare need at scale. In partnership with Bahiafarma and Bionovis, we are bringing together science, innovation, manufacturing excellence and local expertise to create a more sustainable pathway for access to this important cancer therapy. Together, we are not only supporting better patient outcomes but also helping build a stronger, more resilient healthcare ecosystem in Brazil.” Shreehas Tambe, CEO & Managing Director, Biocon, said in a press release.
