Sanofi, the drug maker which is based in France announced that through Globalpharma, it has commenced the first phase of local generic drug production in Dubai.

This announcement by Sanofi comes after the acquisition of a major stake in Globalpharma by Sanofi from Dubai Investments this year in June.

Globalpharma is being integrated as a Sanofi company to become the platform to promote and manufacture the generics portfolio of Sanofi in Middle Eastern markets.

The French drug maker said that the new portfolio will include gastrointestinal, anti-infective and cardiovascular products for the Middle East markets.

According to officials the integration is a mutually beneficial deal as Globalpharma boasts a strong local footprint and can act as a platform for Sanofi’s regional expansion, while Sanofi will bring to Globalpharma its knowledge in industrial development.

SVP at Intercontinental Global Operations at Sanofi, Antoine Ortoli said that their combined portfolios in specific therapeutic areas and strong geographical presence will enable them to broaden their reach and strengthen to their presence in the generic drugs market, providing more patients with affordable and high quality medications.

CEO and managing director of Dubai Investments, Khalid Bin Kalban said that the integration of Globalpharma into Sanofi portfolio would further build the company’s capabilities in the region. He added that this divestment of shares with Sanofi is a major step forward in strengthening the company’s market leadership through a differentiated and specialty-driven generics portfolio, bringing together the strong reputation of Globalpharma and the global expertise of Sanofi, and tailored to meet the needs and demands of the regional healthcare industry.

Currently, Globalpharma manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products in over 14 markets across the Middle East and other neighboring countries.

Globalpharma produces a wide range of medicines including nutritional supplements, antibiotics, respiratory products, NSAIDs/ analgesics, anti-ulcerants and medication for chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.