AstraZeneca in generics deal with Torrent

11th Mar 2010 07:16

Drug giant AstraZeneca today announced a license and supply agreement with Indian peer Torrent Pharmaceuticals. Under the deal, Torrent will supply a portfolio of generic medicines for which it already has licenses in a range of countries. Astra said it intends to brand and market these products in many of its emerging markets, where it already has a strong commercial footprint. Astra will initially purchase the licenses and market authorizations for 18 products in nine countries. The agreement allows the flexibility to add further products and new countries where AstraZeneca sees opportunities for growth. Financial terms were not disclosed. Tony Zook, head of AstraZeneca's global commercial organisation, said: 'In markets where consumers and physicians have a strong preference for trusted brands, we believe AstraZeneca's long-standing reputation for quality is a sustainable competitive advantage.' 'Working in partnership with Torrent will extend the range of branded medicines we can offer to patients in emerging markets, where we see continuing opportunities for our business to grow.' 'We have chosen Torrent because of their complementary product portfolio and proven ability to manufacture to AstraZeneca's high quality standards.'