Merck has entered a strategic collaboration with MSD South Africa and Adcock Ingram, a publicly held South African company, to co-promote and distribute several established MSD products in South Africa. The products will be jointly promoted by MSD and Adcock Ingram and include OTC products and prescription drugs currently registered in South Africa by MSD and Schering-Plough. Details of the collaboration were not disclosed.

“This collaboration is part of Merck’s long-term strategy of expanding our geographic presence which will position us for leadership in emerging markets,” said Dr. Stefan Oschmann, president, Emerging Markets, MSD. “We expect sales from these markets to be a key contributor to our future performance and growth. This collaboration, with a highly respected local partner, shows our commitment to invest in South Africa. It also better positions us to address the serious burden of disease in the country and provide the people and patients of South Africa with access to affordable, high-quality health care.”

Jonathan Louw, chief executive officer of Adcock Ingram, added, “We are excited about the collaboration with MSD because it will enhance our diverse portfolio and broaden our pipeline of new products in the market place. Together, we have a formidable marketing and distribution capacity backed by an excellent track record of delivery to all our clients.”