Biocon Biologics and Yoshindo launch ustekinumab biosimilar in Japan for psoriasis and PsA treatment.
Biocon Biologics Limited, a fully integrated global biosimilars company and subsidiary of Biocon Limited, has announced that its commercial partner in Japan, Yoshindo Incorporated, has launched Ustekinumab BS Subcutaneous injection. This is a biosimilar version of the reference drug Stelara (ustekinumab).
The biosimilar is developed and manufactured by Biocon Biologics, while Yoshindo is responsible for its marketing and commercialisation in Japan.
Approved biosimilar to treat chronic inflammatory conditions
Ustekinumab is a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), both of which are chronic inflammatory conditions. The biosimilar received regulatory approval from Japan's Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) in December 2024.
This development followed a settlement and licensing agreement signed in April 2024 between Biocon Biologics and Janssen Biotech Incorporated, Janssen Sciences Ireland UC, and Johnson & Johnson. The agreement permitted Biocon Biologics to commercialise ustekinumab in Japan following PMDA approval.
Strengthening global biosimilars footprint
The launch in Japan marks another milestone in Biocon Biologics' continued global expansion. The biosimilar ustekinumab had previously been launched in the United States and the European Union in February 2025. Its entry into Japan is expected to improve access to advanced therapies for psoriasis and PsA, offering patients a cost-effective treatment alternative.
Key business drivers and quarterly performance
Biocon reported a solid performance in the March 2025 quarter, led by the generics segment. Additional contributors included the UK-Netherlands retail collaboration for liraglutide and the introduction of cancer and blood pressure treatment capsules in the US market. During the same period, four of Biocon Biologics' biosimilars crossed the sales mark of $200 million (₹20 crores) each, reflecting the company's growing influence in the global biologics market.
Market reaction and strategic outlook
The collaboration with Yoshindo further strengthens Biocon Biologics' presence in highly regulated markets, including Asia, the US, and Europe. It also aligns with the company's mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable biologics globally.
At 11:55 AM on May 21, 2025, the shares of Biocon were trading 2.23% higher at ₹339.90 per share on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
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