Biocon in South Africa

Biocon’s Strategic Expansion in South Africa: A Milestone in Pharmaceutical Collaboration

Johannesburg, South Africa – July 22, 2025

Biocon Limited, a leading global biopharmaceutical company, has recently achieved significant milestones in South Africa, underscoring its commitment to enhancing healthcare access and fostering local pharmaceutical capabilities.

Approval of Tacrolimus Capsules by SAHPRA

In April 2024, Biocon received approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) for its Tacrolimus capsules in 0.5mg, 1mg, and 5mg strengths. Tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, is an immunosuppressant vital for organ transplant patients, particularly those undergoing renal transplants. This approval marked Biocon’s inaugural product authorization in South Africa, reflecting the company’s dedication to addressing critical medical needs in the region. (biocon.com)

Establishment of Biocon Biologics South Africa (PTY) Ltd

Further solidifying its presence, Biocon Biologics established Biocon Biologics South Africa (PTY) Ltd on August 11, 2023. This wholly owned subsidiary aims to commercialize, sell, and distribute pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and biologics products within South Africa. In its first fiscal year, the subsidiary reported a revenue of C1 million, indicating a promising start in the South African market. (steelcitynettrade.com)

Integration of Acquired Biosimilars Business

Biocon Biologics has successfully integrated the biosimilars business acquired from Viatris across approximately 120 countries, including South Africa. This strategic move has expanded Biocon’s commercial footprint, enabling direct access to patients and healthcare systems, thereby enhancing the availability of affordable biosimilars in the region. (themalaysianreserve.com)

Collaborative Efforts to Strengthen Vaccine Manufacturing

In June 2025, Biovac, a South African biopharmaceutical company, and Biological E, an Indian vaccine manufacturer, entered into a technology transfer agreement to produce a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine locally. This collaboration aims to bolster Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities, aligning with the African Union’s goal of producing 60% of vaccines used on the continent by 2040. While Biocon is not directly involved in this partnership, the initiative reflects a broader trend of international collaborations enhancing Africa’s pharmaceutical self-sufficiency. (iol.co.za)

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Conclusion

Biocon’s strategic initiatives in South Africa, including product approvals, subsidiary establishment, and integration of biosimilars, underscore its commitment to improving healthcare access and fostering local pharmaceutical development. These efforts not only enhance the availability of essential medications but also contribute to the broader goal of achieving pharmaceutical self-sufficiency in Africa.