China:
Expansion in biotechnology
In January, Merck acquired 100% of the share capital of Beijing Skywing Technology Co., Ltd, a leading supplier of cell culture media products, related technical services and bioreactors for the Chinese biopharmaceutical industry.
Japan:
Pigment production continues
The devastating March earthquake in Japan caused damage to Merck facilities in Onahama, resulting in a pigment production stoppage, but production resumed on May 8. Executive Board Chairman Karl-Ludwig Kley provides assurance that “Merck will continue investing in research, development and production in Japan.”
Pharmaceuticals:
Cladribine tablets discontinued
In June, Merck decided to no longer pursue the global approval process for cladribine tablets as a treatment for multiple sclerosis. Merck discontinued market supply of cladribine tablets in Australia and Russia, where the product had already been approved.
Merck Millipore:
New microbiology business
The microbiology business of Biotest AG became an official part of Merck on August 1. 300 new employees celebrated “Day 1”.
Merck Serono: Important
collaboration agreements
Merck and Ono Pharmaceutical agreed to co-develop an oral multiple sclerosis drug as well as a cancer immunotherapy in Japan, signing two collaboration agreements in October.
Liquid crystals:
First application lab in China
In November, Merck opened its first liquid crystals application laboratory in China, which is intended to provide flat panel display manufacturers in the Chinese market with comprehensive technological support and customer services.