Sun Pharmaceutical Eyeing Partner as Specialty Focus Grows

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries is actively seeking a commercialization partner for MMII, its prospective specialty product aimed at treating osteoarthritis-related pain. After the company released its Q4-FY25 and full-year results, Chairman and Managing Director Dilip Shanghvi confirmed the move during an analyst call. MMII has successfully completed Phase II clinical trials, positioning it for potential next steps in the commercial landscape.

Strategic Review of Specialty Pipeline Underway

As part of a broader reassessment of its global specialty portfolio, Sun Pharma is also evaluating GLOO34, a drug targeting type 2 diabetes. The compound has cleared Phase I trials and is expected to enter Phase II in the second half of FY26. Shanghvi emphasized that the specialty segment is increasingly central to the company’s long-term strategy.

Awaiting Clarity on U.S. Trade Policy Impact

Commenting on U.S. trade policies under President Trump, Shanghvi said the pharma industry awaits clarity on tariffs and the MFN pricing directive, noting that differing U.S.-Europe pricing could impact profitability. Sun Pharma expects to spend an additional $100 million in the coming year to address these potential policy changes.

M&A Strategy: Open to Value-Driven Deals

Shanghvi indicated that the company remains open to acquisitions, provided they align with Sun Pharma’s strategic goals and are financially reasonable. “If an acquisition adds value and the size isn’t a put-off, we will consider it,” he said.

Global Specialty Pipeline Looks Promising

Reflecting on the past year, Shanghvi pointed to a strong specialty pipeline, with promising drugs like leqselvi and unloxcyt. According to The Hindu Business Line, Sun Pharma’s focus on specialty therapeutics and strategic investments supports long-term growth despite near-term hurdles.

Strategic Review of Specialty Pipeline Underway

As part of its global specialty review, Sun Pharma is evaluating GLOO34, a drug for type 2 diabetes. The compound has cleared Phase I trials and is expected to enter Phase II in the second half of FY26. Shanghvi emphasized that the specialty segment is increasingly central to the company’s long-term strategy.

Awaiting Clarity on U.S. Trade Policy Impact

Shanghvi noted that the pharma industry is still awaiting clarity on U.S. trade policies under President Trump, particularly regarding tariffs and the MFN pricing directive. As a result, he warned that any changes could impact profitability, given the differing pricing structures between the U.S. and Europe. Sun Pharma expects to spend an additional $100 million in the coming year to address these potential policy changes.

M&A Strategy: Open to Value-Driven Deals

Shanghvi indicated that the company remains open to acquisitions, provided they align with Sun Pharma’s strategic goals and are financially reasonable. “If an acquisition adds value and the size isn’t a put-off, we will consider it,” he said.

Global Specialty Pipeline Looks Promising

Reflecting on the past year, Shanghvi highlighted a strong pipeline in the specialty segment. He highlighted promising drugs like leqselvi and unloxcyt, acquired via Sun Pharma’s Checkpoint deal, as patient-focused innovations. According to thehindubusinessline.com, Sun Pharma’s focus on specialty therapeutics and pipeline investments positions it for sustained growth despite short-term challenges.