Zydus Cadila has signed an agreement to become 'the Partner of Choice' for marketing existing and new products of Schering AG, Germany, a research based pharma major.

The agreement assumes tremendous significance as this allows patented products of Schering AG to be marketed in India beyond 2005. A group of 8 products have been identified for launch in India, of which 5 products would be introduced for the first time.

The strategic pact between the two companies also covers a landmark agreement on transfer of technology and manufacturing of Schering AG's products in India. These products fall in the women's healthcare segment and contrast media.

Besides this, Zydus Cadila will manufacture select products of Schering AG for a period of 10 years. This would be extendable by another five years. The products will be manufactured at Zydus Cadila's state-of-the-art manufacturing plant at Moraiya in Ahmedabad which is approved by some of the world's leading regulatory authorities including MCA of U.K. and MCC of South Africa.

Speaking on the new development the Chairman and Managing Director of Zydus Cadila, Pankaj R. Patel said, "As one of the collaborators, Schering AG has played a key role in promoting the growth of German Remedies in India. We value this relationship. I believe that this strategic agreement will be a far reaching one in its impact and unlock value for both Zydus Cadila and Schering AG."