Sanofi's animal health division Merial has completed the acquisition of the animal health division of Dosch Pharmaceuticals Private Ltd and entered in India’s growing animal health market.

The signing of a binding agreement leading up to the acquisition was announced in December 2012. Merial and Dosch have now completed all regulatory approvals required for the closing of the acquisition.

The acquired business, now the animal health division of Sanofi Synthelabo India, will commence marketing Dosch’s 86 animal health products and 50 brands for ruminants, poultry and companion animals, as well as continue the process of registering Merial brands for companion and production animals for commercialization in India.

Dosch animal health division CEO, Dr Sharat Tugnait, and his management team will continue to oversee the combined Merial/ Dosch operations in Mumbai, India, under the executive direction of Merial India country manager, Mayank Parekh.

Merial, a Sanofi company is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately 5,600 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2012 sales were €2.2 billion ($2.8 billion).