KELIX bio, a pharmaceutical company, will be investing €48 million in a manufacturing and distribution centre in Malta as part of its efforts to develop and commercialise affordable specialty generics for emerging economies.

The investment is set to create 100 jobs over the next three years, and was announced by Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli during a visit at KELIX bio.

Minister Dalli was accompanied by Malta Enterprise Chief Executive Kurt Farrugia and KELIX Chief Executive Hocine Sidi-Said.

KELIX bio is a specialty generic business that focuses on selected therapy areas and product forms of oncology, diabetes, anti-infectives and inhalers, injectables and biosimilars exporting to over 40 countries across the globe.

The company acquired Italfarmaco SPA's subsidiary Chemi Malta in Ħal Far, taking over its newly built world class, EU and US-FDA certified facility and intends to augment its labour force with at least 100 highly qualified professionals.

Malta Enterprise was at the forefront to facilitate the takeover of Chemi Malta by KELIX bio.

Minister Dalli explained that KELIX is an example of investment that Malta wants to attract, whilst planning ahead to keep offering work opportunities and high-quality employment.

She continued: “Innovation and cost leadership are today being put into action. The investment being carried out by KELIX bio, with the support of the CDC, the Development Partners International and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, is an investment in citizens around the globe.

“This investment is also an investment in our country. We are truly developing Malta as the next biopharma manufacturing hub. It underpins our ability to attract direct foreign investments in high-value, technology driven sectors such as biopharmaceuticals."

Meanwhile, Mr Sidi-Said, also a Co-Founder of the company, stated: “KELIX bio's new centre in Malta will be instrumental in its mission to deliver low-cost affordable and quality drugs to jurisdictions historically deprived of access to such medications.

“Malta also offers a Freedom-to-Operate status that is very attractive to generic manufacturers. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Malta has remained an attractive destination for foreign investors enticed by incentives, a favourable tax regime and a friendly regulatory environment."