Alfresa, Kidswell, and Chiome Collaborate on Biosimilar Development Pact

Collaboration Agreement for Biosimilar Development

Alfresa Holdings, Kidswell Bio, and Chiome Bioscience have entered into a fundamental agreement to collaborate on the development of biosimilars, marking a significant milestone in the Japanese biopharmaceutical landscape. Biosimilars are biologic medical products highly similar to already-approved reference products, possessing the same quality, safety, and efficacy. These products offer more affordable treatment options for patients, which helps alleviate the financial burden on healthcare systems while expanding treatment choices.

In recent years, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has actively promoted policies to encourage the use of biosimilars in Japan. One key initiative is the promotion of stable supply chains for domestically produced biosimilars, exemplified by the “Subsidy Program for the Establishment of Domestic Manufacturing Facilities for Biosimilars.” The MHLW has set an ambitious target aimed at ensuring that by the end of fiscal year 2029, biosimilars will account for over 80% of the total number of biological agents, marking a significant shift in the pharmaceutical market towards these cost-effective alternatives.

The three companies were selected for the MHLW’s funding initiative in May of this year and are currently working with Mycenax Biotech Inc., a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) known for its expertise in biopharmaceutical production, to establish a domestic manufacturing facility for biosimilars in Taiwan. This partnership aims to bolster the domestic production capabilities of biosimilars, ensuring they are accessible to patients in need.

The signing of this agreement enables Alfresa, Kidswell, and Chiome to leverage their respective strengths. Alfresa is recognized for its comprehensive pharmaceutical distribution network across Japan, providing a robust supply chain for medicinal products. Kidswell, with a focus on developing innovative biosimilars, has already brought four biosimilar products to market. Chiome, equipped with extensive experience in monoclonal antibody research and development, complements the team with its advanced technology in creating biosimilars and targeting unmet medical needs.

The new biosimilars developed under this collaboration will likely be manufactured at the facilities supported by the MHLW’s subsidy program, allowing for a streamlined transition from development to commercial production. This structured approach to developing biosimilars aims to solidify Japan's position in the global biopharmaceutical industry.

This collaborative effort marks the first time in Japan's history that a full value chain for biosimilars is being established, encompassing development, manufacturing, and distribution. It aims to create a stable and efficient domestic supply chain, enhance the availability of biosimilars, and even extend the reach of Japan’s biosimilar products to international markets. Additionally, the initiative looks to foster the growth of domestic biopharma talent, contributing to the overall development and sustainability of the biopharmaceutical industry in Japan.

Alfresa Holdings, also known for its leading position in the pharmaceutical wholesale sector with an annual revenue exceeding ¥2.9 trillion, emphasizes its commitment to creating a vibrant healthcare environment. With its group philosophy of delivering a healthy and fulfilling life to all, the company underlines its dedication to addressing diverse medical needs.

Kidswell Bio focuses on creating value through innovative biopharmaceuticals and aims to contribute to society by providing cutting-edge treatments for patients suffering from various health conditions. The company is optimistic about the future of its cell therapy initiatives, seeing them as a core component of its growth strategy.

Chiome Bioscience stands out for its proprietary technologies, like the ADLib® system and Tribody® technology, in developing antibody drugs that target pressing medical needs. Through this new collaboration, Chiome aims to enhance its participation in the biosimilar market, while also fostering robust partnerships with various pharmaceutical firms.

Overall, this strategic partnership among Alfresa, Kidswell, and Chiome heralds a transformative phase in Japan's biopharma sector, with the potential to significantly enhance patient access to affordable treatments and contribute to the development of an innovative healthcare ecosystem.

For further inquiries regarding this collaboration, please reach out to the corporate communication departments of each company through the provided contact details.