Nicholas Piramal India Limited (NPIL) and US-based Advanced Medical Optics Inc (AMO), a leading company in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, have tied up for the supply of selected components of AMO's eye care products.

NPIL will become a supplier to AMO for neutralizing tablets and unit dose form fill and seal solution products that will be distributed through various AMO manufacturing and distribution centres around the world. These products will be manufactured in NPIL's state-of-the-art formulations facility at Pithampur, with exports anticipated to begin in early 2005. The contract is for five years with the option for renewal.

"This agreement marks another step in the execution of our global manufacturing strategy and will help ensure we provide continued and seamless delivery of our eye care products to customers," said James V Mazzo, AMO president and CEO. "We are also very pleased to be working with Nicholas Piramal, a leading pharmaceutical and healthcare company in India."

"NPIL has declared its strategic intent of partnering with leading healthcare and pharmaceutical companies for their global supplies. This contract is a validation of NPIL's intent and is a stepping stone in achieving our mission of becoming a global partner of choice," said Ajay Piramal, chairman of NPIL.