BeiGene and NewBridge Pharmaceuticals FZ LLC Mutually Agree to Conclude BRUKINSA (Zanubrutinib) Partnership in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) Region

BeiGene, a global oncology company, and NewBridge Pharmaceuticals have jointly decided to conclude their partnership. This strategic decision aligns with BeiGene’s goals to expand its presence and directly manage operations in the MENA region.

The collaboration between the two companies began in 2020 and included sales, distribution, and commercialization activities for BRUKINSA (Zanubrutinib) in the MENA region. As a result of the partnership, BRUKINSA has been approved by the health authorities in multiple territories and is currently marketed in several regions with additional approvals to come. The separation is well planned, with timelines determined on a country-by-country basis starting in June 2024 and completing by March 31, 2025. Whilst the distribution agreement has been agreed by the parties to terminate on March 31, 2025, all customer-facing activities will be taken over by BeiGene from June 11, 2024, including Medical Affairs, Commercial Operations and Market Access, with BeiGene utilizing the expanded team it is building in the region.

“NewBridge Pharmaceuticals has been an important enabler of our journey in the MENA region over the past five years, and we are grateful for their collaboration,” said Mohammed Al-Kapany, General Manager of the MENA region. “As we conclude this partnership, BeiGene remains committed to seamlessly transitioning to a direct operating model across the region, reinforcing our commitment to advancing cancer care and making our innovative treatments more accessible to patients. We look forward to building on the foundation laid during this time and advancing our global growth objectives.”

Hisham El Sayed, Executive VP & Regional Head of Commercial, Middle East & Africa for NewBridge Pharmaceuticals, commented, “Working with BeiGene has been a rewarding journey, and we are proud of what we have accomplished together. We support BeiGene’s strategic decision and are committed to ensuring a seamless transition for the healthcare providers and patients we serve.”

This strategic shift represents a significant milestone for BeiGene as it expands its global presence. By 2025, the company aims to achieve groundbreaking advancements in the treatment of solid tumors and hematological cancers, reinforcing its dedication to providing cutting-edge cancer therapies worldwide. This move underscores BeiGene’s commitment to delivering innovative and transformative treatments to cancer patients globally.