Dong-A ST Launched Anemia Treatment in UAE
The company has introduced the biosimilar Dabecron to the Middle Eastern market through a partnership with Julphar.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Healthcare
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Dong-A ST has officially launched the anemia treatment biosimilar Dabecron in the United Arab Emirates. The drug, which is a biosimilar of darbepoetin alfa, is designed to treat patients suffering from chronic kidney failure and chemotherapy-related anemia.
Why it matters
The launch marks a significant expansion for Dong-A ST as it works to bring its portfolio into the Middle East and North Africa. This move leverages an existing licensing agreement with Julphar to increase access to essential anemia therapeutics across 18 countries.
Dabecron recorded sales of 26.7 billion Korean won in Japan in 2025, representing a significant increase over the 16.5 billion won generated in 2024. The product is now being deployed across a 18-country licensing region in Asia and the Middle East.
The players
Dong-A ST
This pharmaceutical company is a major developer of biosimilar treatments based in South Korea.
Julphar
This is a prominent pharmaceutical manufacturer responsible for product approval and commercialization in the MENA region.
The details
Julphar secured local product approval in the UAE in June 2026, clearing the path for the recent launch. The agreement assigns Julphar the responsibility for commercializing the drug, which was originally approved for manufacturing and sales in Japan in 2019.
Timeline
2014: Dong-A ST signed a development contract with SKK.
2019: Dabecron received manufacturing and sales approval in Japan.
November 2024: Dong-A ST signed a license agreement with Julphar.
June 2026: Julphar obtained product approval in the UAE.
October 12, 2026: Dong-A ST announced the launch of Dabecron.
Market Landscape
This move highlights the ongoing expansion of biosimilar pharmaceutical products in emerging markets as firms seek global reach. By partnering with established local entities like Julphar, Dong-A ST effectively navigates regulatory complexities to compete in the growing MENA healthcare sector.
Patients in the UAE suffering from chronic kidney failure or chemotherapy-related anemia may now have increased access to this therapeutic option. The partnership aims to provide a reliable supply of the biosimilar through Julphar's established commercial channels.
The takeaway
The successful launch in the UAE underscores the importance of strategic regional licensing agreements in the pharmaceutical industry. These partnerships are essential for companies looking to transition established domestic products into highly regulated international markets.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends in the medical sector, visit the Healthcare section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 조선일보.
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