Indian biotechnology giant, Biocon Ltd, and Abu Dhabi-based pharmaceutical manufacturer Neopharma, announced the setting up of NeoBiocon, a new joint venture to be based at the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech), member of TECOM Investments.

NeoBiocon is a pioneering initiative that heralds the region’s first foray into developing and marketing life saving biopharmaceutical niche products in key therapeutic areas such as oncology, diabetes, auto-immune disorders, cardiology, anti-obesity drugs and new generation immunosuppressant agents.

NeoBiocon’s platform emerges from a symbiotic partnership between the two companies. Biocon’s knowledge base and cutting-edge technology and Neopharma’s manufacturing prowess and market expertise will complement each other.

DuBiotech, which seeks to be the centre for excellence in biotechnology by bridging research, education and industry through partnerships, provides the ideal infrastructure. Companies can either set up their own facilities or make use of ready made offices for their R&D, pilot production and storage facilities.

Abdulqader Al Khayat, Executive Director of DuBiotech, said: “It is a privilege to host such a pioneering initiative by Neopharma and Biocon. This as a true testament to our capabilities in providing companies with the necessary infrastructure in a prime location.

Independent studies have revealed high mortality rates due to diabetes and cardiovascular disorders in this region apart from an alarmingly high incidence of the disease. In addition to India and sub-Saharan Africa, the greatest relative increase of these diseases is expected to occur in the Middle Eastern countries.

Research also points to obesity as another serious and growing problem. Current epidemiological estimates suggest that 1.1 billion people worldwide are above their ideal weight. Developing obesity treatments that target novel pathways is a growing focus for biopharmaceutical companies.

The biotech product offerings at NeoBiocon include biologicals, proprietary/in-licensed products, targeted therapeutics; research-based differentiated formulations and innovative drug delivery system. The company shall be targeting innovative products.