Celltrion, a leading South Korean biopharmaceutical company, is expanding its direct sales operations in Europe, most notably in Spain, as it seeks to solidify its position in the global biosimilar market. The company’s strategic shift, initiated in May 2025, involves taking direct control of sales for several key products, moving away from reliance on traditional distribution partners.
Expanding Direct Sales in Spain
Celltrion’s Spanish subsidiary began direct sales of three anticancer drugs – Truxima (rituximab), Herzuma (trastuzumab), and Vegzelma (bevacizumab) – in May 2025, following discussions with its former distribution partner, Kern Pharma. This move followed a successful tender win from CSC, a major consortium overseeing drug supply for 25 public hospitals in Catalonia, securing a contract to supply Truxima and Herzuma for approximately four years until 2029. The company’s Spanish operations are headed by Kang Seok-hoon, who oversees both Spain and Portugal.
This expansion builds upon Celltrion’s presence in the Spanish market since 2018. The decision to move to direct sales reflects a broader strategy to leverage local market experience and strengthen sales competitiveness through its subsidiaries. According to a company statement, the focus is on stabilizing distribution networks in newly established direct sales areas.
Broader European Rollout of Avtozma
Beyond Spain, Celltrion has recently launched its autoimmune biosimilar, Avtozma, in Germany, France, and Spain. These launches followed approvals granted by local authorities in 2024 for both intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) formulations of the drug. Plans are also underway to launch Avtozma in Britain and Italy, further extending its reach across key European markets.
The IV formulation of Avtozma was first launched in the United States in October. Celltrion aims to rapidly expand its presence in the global autoimmune disease biosimilar market for tocilizumab-based products, capitalizing on its established brand recognition and sales experience in Europe.
Financial Projections and Biosimilar Portfolio Growth
Celltrion anticipates significant financial gains from its expanding biosimilar portfolio. The company projected its annual operating profit would exceed 1 trillion won (approximately $870 million USD as of February 4, 2026) for the first time in 2025, driven by strong sales of its flagship biosimilars, including Remsima SC, Steqeyma, Yuflyma, and Vegzelma.
The global market for Actemra, the reference drug for Avtozma developed by Roche, was valued at 4.5 trillion won (approximately $3.9 billion USD as of February 4, 2026) in 2024. Celltrion has been actively increasing the number of approved biosimilars in its portfolio, from six to eleven, and aims to commercialize 18 biosimilars by 2030 and 41 by 2038.
Original Drug Development
While primarily focused on biosimilars, Celltrion also has an original drug, Zymfentra, currently sold in the United States for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The same product is marketed as Remsima SC in Europe and other regions.
Strategic Implications and Market Context
Celltrion’s move towards direct sales represents a significant shift in its European strategy. By taking greater control over distribution, the company aims to improve efficiency, enhance market responsiveness, and capture a larger share of the profits generated by its products. This approach also allows for closer engagement with healthcare providers and patients, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and increased brand loyalty.
The biosimilar market is becoming increasingly competitive, with numerous companies vying for market share. Celltrion’s success will depend on its ability to navigate regulatory hurdles, maintain product quality, and effectively market its products to healthcare professionals and patients. The company’s commitment to expanding its portfolio and investing in direct sales infrastructure suggests a long-term strategy focused on sustainable growth and market leadership.
The company describes itself as a “global biotechnology company dedicated to the health of patients and a better life for humanity.” This commitment is reflected in its ongoing efforts to develop and commercialize affordable, high-quality biosimilars that can improve access to essential medicines for patients around the world.
