Mankind Pharma To Acquire 70% Stake In Cancer Therapy Firm ACTx, ₹511 Crore Deal Marks Entry Into Advanced Cancer Treatments

Mankind Pharma has made a significant investment by acquiring a 70% stake in Belgium-based Armed Cell Therapeutics B.V., or ACTx, for €48 million, equivalent to approximately Rs 511.18 crore. The acquisition is set to bolster Mankind Pharma's presence in advanced cancer treatment therapies. The deal is being finalized through Mankind Pharma's subsidiary in the Netherlands, and all payments will be made in cash over time. Government regulatory approvals are still pending for this transaction.

ACTx primarily focuses on the development of advanced cancer treatments using chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) technology. This technology allows the modification of immune cells to distinguish and eliminate cancer cells. ACTx is currently working on a more advanced form known as armed CAR-T therapy, aiming to enhance the efficacy and potential duration of cancer treatment. ACTx is also developing therapies for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and small cell lung cancer, among others.

This acquisition comes as Mankind Pharma has reported a 22% increase in revenue and a 203% rise in net profit for Q4 FY26. The company is investing in research, development, and innovative therapies, particularly in non-Hodgkin lymphoma and small cell lung cancer. Mankind Pharma's acquisition of ACTx provides access to specialized cancer research and international expertise, contributing to the company's focus on global innovation.

Arjun Juneja, Chief Operating Officer of Mankind Pharma, emphasized that the acquisition is a crucial step towards building a global pipeline of breakthrough therapies. ACTx co-founder Paul Stoffels also highlighted the potential of next-generation CAR-T technology to significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes. The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approvals, and Mankind Pharma shares closed at Rs 2,347.60 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) on October 15, up by 0.54%.