#Japan #Tokyo #Alfresa Holdings #Kidswell Bio #Bio-Similars

Joint Venture Formation for Bio-Similar Production in Japan

In a landmark development for the Japanese pharmaceutical landscape, Alfresa Holdings, along with Kidswell Bio, Chiyome BioScience, and Mycenax Biotech, has reached a basic agreement to establish a joint venture aimed at manufacturing bio-similars. This initiative is supported by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare through its project to bolster domestic production facilities for bio-similars, which are essential medicines. The manufacturing site will be located at Alfresa Fine Chemical’s facility in Akita Prefecture.

Goals of the Joint Venture

The primary objective of this joint venture is to create a stable supply system for bio-similars within Japan. The involved parties collectively submitted an application to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and were officially accepted for the subsidy program as of May 21, 2025. The acceptance will enable the group to advance the infrastructure necessary for bio-pharmaceuticals, including but not limited to bio-similars, through funding and support from the ministry.

Framework and Collaboration

The four companies, Alfresa Holdings, Kidswell, Chiyome, and Mycenax, will collaborate under this agreement to establish a manufacturing facility that focuses on the research and production of bio-similars and other related bio-pharmaceuticals. The project also emphasizes the significance of contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) services, aiming for an increased domestic production of bio-similars, which include essential therapeutic agents that mirror existing approved products after their patent expirations.

The joint venture also plans to leverage Alfresa Group’s distribution networks to enhance the total value chain associated with bio-similar products. This development will promote not only domestic self-sufficiency but also facilitate the export of bio-similar raw materials and formulations produced in Japan. Furthermore, the initiative aims to contribute to the development of human resources engaged in the manufacturing and development of bio-pharmaceuticals, vital for the overall growth of Japan’s medical industry.

Future Directions

Details regarding the name and location of the joint venture company will be finalized in subsequent discussions. The collaboration among these four firms is expected to yield substantial benefits, fostering innovation and ensuring that patients in Japan have sustained access to affordable biological medicines.

Company Profiles

Alfresa Holdings

Alfresa Holdings is one of Japan’s leading pharmaceutical companies, boasting a consolidated revenue exceeding 2.9 trillion yen, making it the top pharmaceutical wholesaler in Japan. The company is dedicated to the comprehensive support of the healthcare supply chain, ensuring that medical products are accessible to everyone while striving for innovation in the pharmaceutical sector. Learn more about Alfresa

Kidswell Bio

Kidswell embraces a corporate philosophy centered on creating value through biotechnology, focusing on pediatric and family care. The company has already launched four bio-similar products that form a stable revenue source, complemented by its emerging cell therapy business that is currently in clinical development. Explore Kidswell here

Chiyome BioScience

Chiyome specializes in the development of multi-specific antibodies using its proprietary technologies. As a bio-venture, it aims to meet high unmet medical needs and is committed to collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to contribute to Japan's drug discovery ecosystem. Find out more about Chiyome

Mycenax Biotech

MBI is a pioneer in Taiwan’s bio-pharmaceutical CDMO market, offering integrated services from development to commercial production. The company excels in providing a full range of CDMO offerings, establishing a robust supply chain for global clients. See MBI's services

Conclusion

The collaboration of these innovative companies marks a significant step forward in enhancing Japan's capacity for producing essential bio-similar medicines domestically. This joint venture promises to play a crucial role in the evolution of effective healthcare solutions for patients across the country.