Johannesburg-based Aspen to set up operations at DuBiotech to cover Europe, Middle East, North Africa and Canada

Aspen Healthcare is a regional operational hub for Aspen Global, a company that is 100 per cent owned by Aspen Pharamacare Holdings Ltd., the largest pharmaceutical company by size in South Africa that is also listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Aspen recently strengthened its intellectual property portfolio with the acquisition of Eltroxin, Lanoxin, Imuran and Zyloric from GlaxoSmithKline ("GSK").

In addition, a licensing agreement was concluded with US-based Iroko Pharmaceuticals for the distribution of three Merck, Sharpe & Dohme products including Aldomet, Indocid and Aggrastat. These products, together with a selection of Aspen's own products, will be distributed into Aspen's worldwide markets.

Marwan Abdul Aziz, Director of DuBiotech Park, said:

"DuBiotech has once again proven its standing as a global hub for attracting world leaders in pharmaceuticals. We are extremely pleased to welcome Aspen Healthcare to DuBiotech. Aspen Healthcare is a leading pharmaceutical company that is globally reputed for its branded and generic drugs. Its presence at DuBiotech will enrich the biotechnology sector in the region and provide Aspen Healthcare with a central location for improved distribution channels."

Aspen Healthcare has been established to grow Aspen's presence in the EMENAC region. The business is being led by a dedicated team of experienced professionals based in the DuBiotech free zone in Dubai. The team will engage with appropriate commerce and industry stakeholders within the EMENAC region to develop an effective, local distribution platform for the delivery of trusted and affordable medicines.

Stephen Saad, Aspen Group Chief Executive said: "The Group has been set on a path of internationalisation through the completion of a number of carefully selected transactions. The acquired businesses and products provide added value to Aspen's infrastructure to enable a continuation of growth. To this end, Aspen Healthcare FZ LLC has been established in Dubai to facilitate Aspen's expansion into EMENAC."

Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) is dedicated to creating an advanced technical and community infrastructure to accelerate the growth of the life sciences industry. It is also working closely with the UAE Ministry of Health, the Dubai Health Authority, and other relevant regulatory bodies to further develop the industry in the country and the region.