Pharma News Update – Weekly - 14-02-2026 - Covers Pharmaceutical Indutry NEWS

The second week of February 2026 brought a series of significant developments across the global and Indian pharmaceutical industries. From regulatory changes, strategic acquisitions, and manufacturing investments to strong quarterly earnings and evolving trade agreements, the sector continues to experience rapid transformation.

The week highlighted major themes including biosimilars growth, regulatory scrutiny, global trade realignments, healthcare innovation, automation, and the rising role of India as a manufacturing and research hub.

The global and Indian pharmaceutical industries witnessed a dynamic week marked by regulatory shifts, major acquisitions, strong quarterly earnings, and significant investments in manufacturing and innovation. From biosimilar legal battles and trade negotiations to automation trends and capital market activity, the sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace.

This week’s Pharma News Update reflects the industry’s transition toward biosimilars, preventive healthcare, digital manufacturing, and global trade integration. Indian companies remain at the center of this transformation, driven by cost-efficient manufacturing, growing R&D investments, and expanding global demand.

Regulatory and Legal Developments

Supreme Court Allows Zydus Biosimilar Launch

In a key ruling, the Supreme Court of India refused to restrain Zydus Lifesciences from marketing its biosimilar version of nivolumab, a cancer immunotherapy drug. The originator company had sought an injunction citing patent infringement.

The court observed that while patent issues could be addressed through financial compensation, denying patients access to life-saving therapies could not be reversed. The matter was referred to the Delhi High Court for further patent mapping and legal examination.

This decision is expected to influence the future of biosimilar litigation in India and strengthen patient access to affordable biologics.

Pricing and Quality Oversight Intensifies

Regulatory agencies continued to tighten controls across the sector:

  • The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority directed companies to revise prices of 117 drugs following duty reductions.
  • CDSCO flagged multiple substandard drugs during quality checks, raising concerns about manufacturing compliance.
  • Environmental scrutiny also increased, with manufacturing plants facing regulatory action over pollution-related issues.

These actions reflect the government’s dual focus on affordability and quality.

Trade Policy and Global Market Shifts

India–US Interim Trade Deal Gains Momentum

India and the United States moved closer to signing an interim trade agreement, expected to reduce tariffs on a wide range of products, including pharmaceuticals.

Officials indicated the legal framework could be signed by the end of March. The agreement may eliminate tariffs on more than half of Indian exports to the US, significantly improving market access for Indian drugmakers.

This development comes at a time when Indian pharmaceutical companies are facing pricing pressure and regulatory challenges in the US market.

Zero Duty on Select Life-Saving Drugs

The Indian government also announced zero import duties on certain critical medicines, including cancer drugs. The move is expected to:

  • Reduce treatment costs.
  • Improve patient access.
  • Strengthen domestic healthcare affordability.

Major Corporate Moves and Investments

USV Acquires 79% Stake in Wellbeing Nutrition

USV Pharma made a strategic entry into the nutraceutical and consumer wellness space by acquiring a 79% stake in Wellbeing Nutrition for approximately ₹1,583 crore.

The acquisition highlights:

  • Pharma companies’ growing interest in preventive healthcare.
  • Rising consumer demand for wellness products.
  • Convergence between pharmaceuticals and nutrition.

The founder will continue to run the company, ensuring continuity and brand growth.

Servier Announces €15 Million Investment in India

French pharmaceutical company Servier announced plans to invest €15 million in India. The investment will focus on:

  • Cardiometabolic therapies.
  • Venous disease treatments.
  • Local manufacturing partnerships.

The move reinforces India’s importance as a global manufacturing and research hub.

Alkem Medtech Expands into Advanced Devices

Alkem Medtech announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Swiss medical device firm Occlutech. The acquisition marks Alkem’s entry into advanced cardiovascular devices and reflects the increasing integration of pharma and medical technology sectors.

State-Level Pharma Investments Surge

Indian states continue to attract large pharmaceutical investments:

  • Uttar Pradesh reported pharma investment proposals worth ₹38,000 crore.
  • Odisha cleared projects totaling over ₹4,100 crore.

These investments are expected to boost domestic manufacturing capacity and employment.

Financial Performance: Earnings Drive Market Confidence

Biocon Reports Fivefold Profit Jump

Biocon reported a more than fivefold increase in quarterly net profit to ₹144 crore, driven by strong generics and biosimilars performance.

Key growth drivers included:

  • Improved product launches.
  • Expansion in international markets.
  • Strong biosimilar demand.

Lupin Posts Strong US-Driven Growth

Lupin reported a 37% increase in quarterly profit, primarily due to robust US market performance. The company highlighted improved operational efficiency and better product mix.

Torrent Pharma Net Profit Rises 26%

Torrent Pharmaceuticals posted a 26% year-on-year increase in net profit, supported by strong growth across chronic therapy segments such as cardiology and diabetes.

Growth Across Major Companies

Other companies reporting improved performance included:

  • GSK India: 29% profit growth.
  • Abbott India: 4% increase in net profit.
  • Natco Pharma: higher earnings and interim dividend.
  • Aurobindo Pharma: profit growth driven by improved operations.

These results indicate a broad-based recovery across the sector, led by generics and biosimilars.

Research, Innovation, and Product Developments

Biological E Gets WHO Approval for Polio Vaccine

Biological E received full WHO prequalification for its oral polio vaccine, allowing it to manage the entire manufacturing process in-house.

The company has already supplied tens of millions of doses globally, strengthening India’s role in vaccine supply chains.

AstraZeneca Expands Cancer Treatment Indication

AstraZeneca received regulatory approval in India for a new cancer indication for its immunotherapy drug. The approval expands treatment options for patients and reflects continued innovation in oncology.

HPV Vaccination Programs Expand

HPV vaccination programs are gaining traction in India, though affordability remains a challenge. Increased government focus and awareness campaigns are expected to improve coverage.

Manufacturing, Technology, and Supply Chain Trends

Automation and AI Reshape Pharma Manufacturing

Industry leaders highlighted the growing role of automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Key benefits include:

  • Real-time quality monitoring.
  • Improved compliance.
  • Reduced human error.
  • Higher production efficiency.

Technologies such as digital twins, predictive analytics, and autonomous operations are becoming central to Pharma 4.0 strategies.

Advanced Excipients Gain Strategic Importance

Excipients are emerging as critical components in complex formulations, especially for biologics and specialty drugs.

Key trends include:

  • Shift toward functional excipients.
  • Focus on patient compliance.
  • Alignment with global quality standards.

This segment is expected to become a high-value opportunity for Indian manufacturers.

Supply Chain Resilience Becomes Priority

Industry experts emphasized the need for:

  • Diversified sourcing.
  • Digital procurement systems.
  • Integrated logistics platforms.

These measures are aimed at ensuring medicine availability and reducing dependence on single-source suppliers.

Capital Markets and Fundraising Activity

Virupaksha Organics Plans ₹740 Crore IPO

API manufacturer Virupaksha Organics received regulatory approval to raise ₹740 crore through an initial public offering.

The funds will be used for:

  • Capacity expansion.
  • Capital expenditure.
  • Debt reduction.

The IPO reflects strong investor interest in pharmaceutical manufacturing companies.

Key Industry Themes of the Week

1. Biosimilars Driving Growth

Indian companies continue to benefit from global demand for cost-effective biologics.

2. Preventive Healthcare on the Rise

Pharma firms are expanding into nutraceuticals and wellness segments.

3. Automation Accelerating

Digital manufacturing technologies are becoming essential for competitiveness.

4. Trade Agreements Reshaping Exports

India–US negotiations could significantly impact pharmaceutical exports.

5. Strong Investment Momentum

Large-scale investments in manufacturing and infrastructure signal long-term growth.

Outlook for the Pharmaceutical Industry

The coming weeks are expected to focus on:

  • Finalization of the India–US trade agreement.
  • Continued biosimilar launches.
  • Regulatory actions on pricing and quality.
  • New IPOs and strategic acquisitions.

India’s pharmaceutical industry is positioned for sustained growth, supported by strong manufacturing capabilities, innovation, and global demand for affordable medicines.

Weekly Pharma Highlights

  • SC allows Zydus cancer biosimilar sales.
  • USV buys 79% stake in Wellbeing Nutrition.
  • Biocon profit surges over fivefold.
  • India–US trade pact expected by March.
  • Biological E gets WHO vaccine approval.
  • Servier to invest €15 million in India.
  • UP and Odisha attract ₹42,000+ crore investments.
  • Automation and biosimilars drive industry trends.

Disclaimer

This news article is compiled from publicly available media reports and industry sources for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Readers should refer to official announcements and professional advisors before making decisions.

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