Taiwan's Lotus Pharmaceuticals has announced that its Board of Directors has approved the acquisition of the trademark, marketing authorization, and manufacturing know-how of Pemetrexed 100mg and 500mg under the brand name of Alimta in Taiwan for $62 million from Eli Lilly and Company.

Immediately upon closing the transaction, the company will take over Alimta business in Taiwan. The completion of this transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.

Alimta is indicated for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), and it is a first-line treatment for NSCLC with high brand loyalty.

According to IQVIA data, the total sales of Alimta in Taiwan for the last 12 months as of December 31, 2021 were approximately $48 million, driven by the major hospitals and medical centers in Taiwan.

Lung cancer has been among the top cause of death in Taiwan for decades, making more than 15,000 patients suffer from the disease a year.

Petar Vazharov, Chief Executive Officer of Lotus, said:“The acquisition of Alimta supports our mission and enables Lotus to become a leading player in oncology in one of its core markets in Asia. Lotus has been building during the last 6 years for a comprehensive portfolio in lung cancer drug market, including complex generics such as internall-developed Vinorelbine oral formulation and in-licensed NCEs such as Zepzelca (lurbinectedin).”