INDIAN, SOUTH AFRICAN FIRMS ANNOUNCE NEW ARVS SUPPLY DEAL

Indian generics major Ranbaxy and South African empowerment firm CIH have agreed a new ARVs supply deal for three Southern African countries. According to local reports, Ranbaxy will have a 70% stake in the venture, which will add to the offering of leading indigenous firms in South Africa and beyond.

The creation of the joint venture, to be known as Sonke Pharmaceuticals, marks a reinvigoration of the Indian firm's operations in South Africa. Several of Ranbaxy's products were previously withdrawn amid quality concerns, and the company has so far secured only one voluntary license. Ranbaxy is also hoping for regulatory approvals in Botswana and Namibia.