India-based Intas Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. has acquired Biologics Process Development, based in Poway, CA. With the acquisition process underway, both Intas Biopharma and BPD are actively pursuing plans to work closely toward fulfillment of common business objectives in the area of biologics Contract Research and Manufacturing Services (CRAMS), according to an Intas statement.

This acquisition is intended to facilitate Intas Biopharma’s foray into the U.S. market especially to expand its CRAMS business. Dr. Scott M. Brown, founder, president and chief scientific officer of BPD, will continue as president and chief scientific officer.

Intas Biopharma’s venture into the CRAMS business has opened up new vistas for R&D in the area of biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars, according to the company. Dr. Dhananjay Patankar, Intas' chief technology officer, commented, "IBPL has taken up the CRAMS opportunity in the biotechnology space as a focus area with tremendous potential and is preparing to scale up its facilities. IBPL offers a unique business model for offshore clients, providing competitive advantages in terms of developing new biotech products, technology transfer and contract manufacturing in a seamless manner and at committed costs, quality, and time."