Singapore-based healthcare private equity firm CBC Group and Mubadala Investment Company, a global investment company based in Abu Dhabi, have jointly announced the strategic acquisition of Belgium-based biopharma UCB’s (FRA: UNC) mature neurology and allergy business in China. The deal is valued at USD 680 million and includes UCB’s well-known brands Keppra, Vimpat, Neupro, Zyrtec, Xyzal, as well as the company’s Zhuhai manufacturing site.
Financial Performance and Strategic Expansion
The product portfolio in question generated a combined net sales of EUR 131 million (USD 138 million) in 2023. This acquisition, building on CBC’s collaboration with Mubadala, will enable CBC to leverage its proprietary investor-operator approach, deep healthcare expertise, and platform synergies to drive operational efficiencies, innovation, and scale, ultimately benefiting more patients across the region.
Enhancing Focus on Innovative Products and Local Partnerships
The deal, first announced in August this year, was described by UCB as a move to enable a stronger focus on innovative products and local partnerships in the China market. UCB CEO Jean-Christophe Tellier noted, “In the short term, UCB is exploring the launch of novel medicines in immunology, neurology, and rare diseases in China.” This strategic acquisition aligns with UCB’s vision to concentrate on bringing innovative solutions to patients while maximizing the potential of their existing business through a partnership with CBC Group and Mubadala Investment Company.-Fineline Info & Tech
