Amgen and Zhejiang Beta Pharma have signed an agreement to form a joint venture to commercialize Amgen's Vectibix (panitumumab) in the Chinese market. The aim is to quickly and efficiently deliver Vectibix to patients in China. Vectibix is a fully human anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody approved by FDA for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
Amgen and Zhejiang Beta Pharma have signed an agreement to form a joint venture to commercialize Amgen's Vectibix (panitumumab) in the Chinese market. The aim is to quickly and efficiently deliver Vectibix to patients in China. Vectibix is a fully human anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody approved by FDA for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
Founded in 2003, Zhejiang Beta Pharma is headquartered in Hang-Zhou with R&D operations in Beijing. It has fully integrated capabilities that include GMP manufacture, sales and marketing. Zhejiang Beta Pharma's expertise in the development and commercialization of molecularly targeted therapies as well as its oncology sales network in China will be of benefit to this joint venture. The company's capabilities complement Amgen's global expertise in the development and manufacturing of human therapeutics.
The joint venture will be named Amgen-Beta Pharmaceuticals, with the Chinese partner owning 51% of the venture while Amgen keeps 49%. According to the press release, its establishment is subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions, including the approval of relevant government authorities in China.
"This joint venture brings us one step closer to providing Chinese patients with Amgen's medicines and supports our strategy of expanding in key, fast-growing markets," said Anthony C. Hooper, executive vice president at Amgen, in a press statement.
"Our partnership with Amgen will be of long-term strategic significance not only for Zhejiang Province, but also for the whole medical community in China," said Lieming Ding, chairman of Zhejiang Beta Pharma. "We share Amgen's passion for developing molecularly targeted therapies for unmet medical needs, and are confident that together we can help many Chinese patients who suffer from colorectal cancer."
Tokyo University of Science Research Team Explores Improved Delivery of Antisense Oligonucleotides
April 18th 2025Using cholesterol-modified oligonucleotides, the research team aims to improve the delivery of antisense nucleotide-based therapies for treating neurodegenerative diseases and brain cancers.
Mastering Antibody-Drug Conjugates
December 19th 2024In this episode, we explore BIOVECTRA’s capabilities in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing, from complex conjugation chemistry to synthesis of highly potent payloads. We’ll also showcase how BIOVECTRA’s extensive experience in complex chemistries and specialized small molecule manufacturing gives them a unique perspective, strengthening their approach to ADC production and ensuring clients receive custom solutions across all project stages.
Teva and Samsung Bioepis Launch Biosimilar Eculizumab in US Market
April 17th 2025Eculizumab-aagh (EPYSQLI) is now available in the US to treat patients living with difficult-to-treat rare diseases such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, and generalized myasthenia gravis.