Sanofi-Aventis planning a dedicated set-up in India for research

Sanofi, which spends €4-5 billion (Rs. 24,920-31,150 crore) on research and development (R&D) annually, is expected to invest some €650 million over the next five years in India

French pharmaceutical firm Sanofi-Aventis SA, the world’s third largest drug maker by sales, is looking to India to expand its scientific capabilities and tap new business opportunities. That’s a path being taken by other international drug makers as well, as they come under pressure in their home markets in developed economies.

Marc Cluzel, who became Sanofi’s global research head in November, was in India last week to meet at least a dozen scientific institutions and drug research firms and domestic drug makers in the public and private sectors. Cluzel, who is executive vice-president (research and development), met officials at scientific institutions such as the Indian Council of Medical Research, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, and regulatory agencies including the department of biotechnology and department of pharmaceuticals.

Sanofi, which spends €4-5 billion (Rs24,920-31,150 crore) on research and development (R&D) annually, is expected to invest some €650 million over the next five years in India. In an interview, Cluzel said Sanofi plans to have a “dedicated set-up in India for discovery research”.