Mankind Pharma Joins Hands with Innovent Biologics to Bring Groundbreaking Cancer Immunotherapy to India

Mankind Pharma has announced a strategic collaboration with Innovent Biologics to introduce sintilimab, a cutting-edge PD-1 immunotherapy, to the Indian market. This exclusive licensing agreement marks a pivotal step in the fight against cancer, aiming to expand access to innovative treatments and improve patient outcomes across the country.

Cancer remains a daunting health challenge in India, with cases projected to reach 29.8 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by 2025, as per the National Cancer Registry Programme. This partnership, however, offers new hope by addressing the critical gaps in treatment availability. Together, Mankind Pharma and Innovent Biologics are set to rewrite the narrative of cancer care in the region.

A Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Treatment

Sintilimab, marketed as TYVYT in China, is an advanced PD-1 monoclonal antibody co-developed by Innovent Biologics and Eli Lilly. This therapy reactivates T-cells by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, enabling the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells effectively. Having demonstrated significant efficacy and safety across a range of cancers—including lung, liver, gastric, oesophagal, endometrial cancers, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma—TYVYT has already transformed lives in China since its launch in 2018.

“India’s oncology landscape is at a tipping point, and sintilimab has the potential to be a game-changer,” noted a statement from Mankind Pharma. With eight approved indications in China, this versatile therapy is poised to make a meaningful impact on Indian patients.

Expanding Reach with a Robust Partnership

Under this agreement, Mankind Pharma will hold exclusive rights to register, import, market, sell, and distribute sintilimab in India. Innovent Biologics will oversee manufacturing and supply, ensuring the therapy meets the highest quality standards.

“Mankind Pharma is thrilled to partner with Innovent Biologics to bring sintilimab to India. This breakthrough immunotherapy redefines what’s possible in oncology care, offering new hope to patients battling a range of cancers,” said Atish Majumdar, Senior President – Sales & Marketing at Mankind Pharma.

Mankind’s expansive network—boasting a 16,000-strong field force and over 13,000 stockists—will be instrumental in ensuring the therapy reaches every corner of the country, including rural markets. “This isn’t just a commercial deal; it’s a commitment to transforming cancer care for India’s underserved communities,” Majumdar emphasized.

Innovent Biologics, for its part, is equally optimistic. Dr. Samuel Zhang, Chief Business Officer of Innovent, expressed his excitement: “This partnership exemplifies our mission to make innovative treatments accessible and affordable. Together with Mankind Pharma, we are confident that sintilimab will reach patients who need it most.”

The partnership also outlines milestone payments for Innovent, reaffirming the shared commitment to scaling the impact of this revolutionary treatment in India.

Towards a Healthier Future

As cancer cases continue to rise, this collaboration signals a transformative shift in the availability of advanced oncological treatments in India. By leveraging each other’s strengths, Mankind Pharma and Innovent Biologics are paving the way for a healthier future, where cutting-edge therapies are not just a privilege but a standard of care.

This partnership is more than a business milestone—it’s a beacon of hope for millions of cancer patients across India.