The deal, valued at over VND5.73 trillion (about US$220.6 million), underscores the increasing attractiveness of Vietnam's pharmaceutical industry to foreign investors.

Livzon, through its Singapore-based subsidiary Lian SGP Holding Pte. Ltd., will purchase shares from existing stakeholders, including SK Investment Vina III Pte. Ltd., which holds a 47.69% stake, alongside smaller investors.

Once the transaction is finalised, expected within nine months, Imexpharm will become an indirect subsidiary of Livzon, with its financial results integrated into Livzon's consolidated reports.

This acquisition marks a significant divestment by SK Group, a major conglomerate of the Republic of Korea, reflecting a strategic restructuring of its investment portfolio in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, Livzon's decision to enter the Vietnamese market highlights its ambition to diversify revenue streams and mitigate risks associated with domestic market fluctuations.

Established in 1985 and headquartered in Zhuhai, China, Livzon is a prominent player in the pharmaceutical industry, specialising in research, development and manufacturing of various pharmaceutical products, including biopharmaceuticals and traditional Chinese medicines.

With over 9,000 employees and listings on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges, Livzon possesses strong financial resources and extensive market expertise.

In recent years, Livzon has actively pursued international expansion, with foreign revenue accounting for nearly 15% of total sales in 2024. The acquisition of Imexpharm represents a strategic move to penetrate one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets.

Imexpharm, founded in 1977 and recognised as one of Vietnam's leading pharmaceutical companies, has established a solid reputation, particularly in the antibiotic sector, where it commands approximately 10% of the domestic market share.

The company has made significant investments in high-standard manufacturing facilities compliant with European standards (EU-GMP), which positions it well for both domestic sales and export opportunities.

In 2024, Imexpharm reported revenues of over VND2.2 trillion, an 11% increase from the previous year, and a net profit of VND320 billion.

The company aims for average annual revenue growth of 15% through 2030, with plans to further expand its manufacturing capabilities, particularly in cardiovascular, diabetes and gastrointestinal treatments.

French pharmaceutical group opens representative office in HCM City

Independent French pharmaceutical group Mayoly has recently announced the official inauguration of its new representative office in Ho Chi Minh City after a long presence in Vietnam through its IPSEN CHC entity.