Akums Drugs & Pharma , a leading Indian pharmaceutical company, has announced plans to invest $24 million in its newly incorporated subsidiary, Akums Healthcare (Zambia) Private Limited. This strategic move marks a significant step in the company's expansion into the African healthcare market.

Investment Details

The investment is planned to be made in phases over the next three years:

Strategic Objectives

The primary objectives of this investment are:

1. To establish a manufacturing facility in Zambia
2. To expand Akums' business operations in the Zambian market
3. To meet the growing pharmaceutical demand in neighboring African countries

Market Potential

Zambia, a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), presents a promising market for pharmaceutical expansion:

• The Zambian pharmaceutical market is currently valued at approximately $200 million
• It is expected to grow to over $300 million by 2030
• Nearly 85% of essential medicines in Zambia are currently imported

Subsidiary Details

• Name: Akums Healthcare (Zambia) Private Limited
• Incorporation Date: October 13, 2025
• Industry: Manufacturing and trading of Pharmaceuticals, Medicinal Chemical and Botanical Products
• Ownership: Akums holds a 51% stake in the Zambian subsidiary

Regulatory Compliance

The investment does not require any specific governmental or regulatory approvals, facilitating a smooth entry into the Zambian market.

Corporate Strategy

This move aligns with Akums' broader strategy to strengthen its global presence and expand its international operations. The company aims to leverage its expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing to tap into the growing African healthcare sector.

By establishing a local manufacturing presence, Akums is positioning itself to better serve the Zambian market and potentially use it as a hub for exports to other SADC nations, which have a combined population of over 400 million.

This investment in Zambia represents a significant milestone in Akums Drugs & Pharma's international growth strategy. The move is expected to not only boost the company's presence in Africa but also contribute to the development of Zambia's pharmaceutical sector.

Akums Drugs & Pharma has made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), securing a 20-year patent for its innovative dual release gastro-resistant tablet. This development marks a potential game-changer for millions of GERD patients worldwide.

Patent Details

The company has been granted a patent for an invention entitled "Dual Release Gastro-Resistant Composition" for a term of 20 years, effective from November 19, 2022. This patent, awarded in accordance with the provisions of the Patents Act, 1970, underscores Akums' commitment to advancing pharmaceutical solutions for chronic conditions.

Innovative Technology

The newly patented tablet utilizes a unique tablet-in-tablet technology, designed to provide enhanced relief for GERD patients. Key features of this innovative treatment include:

• Dual Release Mechanism: The tablet releases the medicine in two phases - 50% in the duodenum and 50% in the ileum.
• Extended Absorption: This phased release allows for extended absorption of the drug, resulting in a longer duration of action.
• Once-Daily Dosage: The advanced formulation offers the convenience of a single daily dose.

Addressing a Global Health Concern

GERD is a widespread digestive disorder affecting a significant portion of the global population:

Advantages Over Conventional Treatments

The dual release Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) tablet aims to overcome limitations of traditional PPIs:

• Better control over nocturnal acid breakthrough
• More complete symptom relief
• Improved heartburn-free days (daytime and nighttime)
• Enhanced quality of life for patients

Regulatory Approval

This innovative formulation has received approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), paving the way for its introduction to the market.

Akums Drugs & Pharma's latest innovation represents a significant step forward in GERD treatment, potentially offering improved outcomes for millions of patients struggling with this common digestive disorder. As the company moves forward with this patented technology, it reinforces its position as a key player in developing patient-friendly therapies for chronic acid-related disorders.