Ranbaxy SA (Pty), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited and Tiger Brands' Healthcare division, Adcock Ingram, announced the formation of a 50:50 joint venture to exclusively sell and distribute Ranbaxy's range of anti-retroviral products in South Africa.

This joint venture will mark a formidable entry platform for Ranbaxy into the South African anti-retroviral market. Adcock Ingram will leverage its strong distribution network and leadership position in the pharmaceutical private market and hospital sector to market Ranbaxy's range of anti-retroviral products.

Ranbaxy has been on the forefront in addressing the healthcare needs by providing cost-effective and quality medicines. In July 2002 the Company's select range of anti-AIDS drugs received approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO), bringing the products within the purview of WHO approved list of anti-AIDS drugs. Ranbaxy markets its anti-AIDS range of products in several countries including Africa. Applications for registration for most of these products have been lodged with the South African Medicines Control Council.

Commenting on the development, Dr Brian W. Tempest, President, Pharmaceuticals, Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited said, " This is a major step forward in deepening our business in South Africa and we are confident that the JV will realise a win-win situation for both the companies".

Chief Executive of Adcock Ingram, Mike Norris said, "HIV infections have reached unprecedented proportions. It is estimated that 40 million adults and more than 10 million orphans are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. South Africa ranks amongst the worst affected countries in the world with an estimated 5 million people being infected with the virus. Research has shown that HIV/AIDS can be managed cost-effectively like any other chronic disease and the health outcomes of HIV-positive patients can be improved with anti-retroviral therapy. The key to successful health outcomes is the availability of a comprehensive range of therapies. Even though this would be low margin business, the expected volumes would contribute to business growth."

"We've some way to go before the joint venture gets off the ground but the foundation has been established. Next steps include the appointment of appropriately qualified and experienced people to manage the joint venture company and the completion of a business plan," he concluded.

Adcock Ingram is South Africa's market-leading pharmaceutical company that is involved in the marketing, distribution and supply of branded and generic prescription medicines and self-medication products.