Vifor Pharma ties up with Hikma for Ferinject in Middle East and North Africa

Switzerland-based Vifor Pharma, a subsidiary of the Galenica Group (GALN: SIX), has entered into a collaboration with fast-growing Jordan-headquartered drugmaker Hikma Pharmaceuticals (LSE: HIK) to market Ferinject, Vifor’s innovative treatment for iron deficiency, in the Middle East and North African region (MENA). The agreement will leverage Hikma's local presence, regional marketing and regulatory expertise, allowing Vifor Pharma to tap the potential of one of the world's fastest-growing markets for iron deficiency products. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The two companies described the agreement - which covers Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia and Yemen - as a "win-win" situation. Patients in these countries will gain rapid access to Ferinject, an efficacious, well tolerated and convenient treatment for iron deficiency. Hikma, with over 1,600 sales and marketing staff in the region, will receive exclusive rights to market a product which complements its portfolio of prescription pharmaceuticals.

"This collaboration is great news for Vifor Pharma. It is also very good news for all patients suffering from iron deficiency in the MENA region. These patients will soon have access to a new and much-needed therapeutic option," said David Ebsworth, chief executive of Vifor.