Aurobindo Pharma is deepening its foothold in China with a strategic stake increase in its joint venture, signaling long-term commitment to the region’s high-growth respiratory segment. Through wholly owned subsidiary Helix Healthcare B.V., the company has agreed to purchase an additional 20% equity in Luoxin Aurovitas from Shandong Luoxin Pharmaceutical Group for $5.12 million, expected to close within three months.

This move elevates Helix’s ownership from 30% to 50%, granting equal partnership and greater operational sway. The JV, established in March 2019 as a 30:70 entity, specializes in producing inhalation therapies targeting chronic conditions like asthma and COPD areas of rising prevalence in China.

The investment will fund expansion with two high-speed manufacturing lines, driving economies of scale, cost efficiencies, and enhanced supply for local demand. It also includes a call option for Helix to acquire the remaining 50% by December 2029 for a pre-agreed $18.86 million.

With the JV’s net worth at approximately $15.29 million, this transaction aligns with Aurobindo Pharma’s broader push into complex generics and specialty dosage forms, leveraging China’s regulatory landscape and market access for global portfolio support.