Zentaris signs with Hainan for Pt drug
German company Zentaris, the Frankfurt-based biopharmaceutical subsidiary of Æterna Laboratories, of Canada, has signed a contract with Chinese company Hainan Tianwang International Pharma-
ceutical for the manufacture and marketing of Lobaplatin in China.
Lobaplatin is a patented platinum-based cancer drug, and has already received marketing authorisation in China for use. The technology transfer agreement provides for Zentaris to receive a one-off payment of C$4.5m (Euro 2.8m). In addition, Tianwang is contracted to manufacture and deliver Lobaplatin to Zentaris or its partners for marketing in all other countries worldwide.
'The collaboration with Tianwang reflects an important strategic move for Zentaris as it forms the basis for future success in the fast-growing Chinese market,' said ceo Prof Dr Jurgen Engel.
'This agreement reflects the growth potential provided by our acquisition of Zentaris.' said Gilles Gagnon, president and ceo at Æterna.