India Pharma Outlook Team | Monday, 09 March 2026
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has agreed to buy US?based oncology company Checkpoint Therapeutics in a deal valued at about USD 355?million (over ?3,000?crore), marking a major step in strengthening its global cancer drug portfolio.
The acquisition includes UNLOXCYT (cosibelimab?ipdl), the first and only FDA?approved immunotherapy for adults with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), a form of skin cancer.
The deal calls for an upfront cash payment of USD 4.10 per share for all outstanding Checkpoint stock, with shareholders also eligible for an additional contingent value right of up to USD 0.70 per share if certain regulatory milestones are met in Europe. This structure reflects a premium over Checkpoint’s share price before the announcement and aims to align long?term value for both companies.
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Dilip Shanghvi, CMD of Sun Pharma, said, “Combining UNLOXCYT, an FDA-approved anti-PD-L1 treatment for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, with Sun Pharma’s global presence means patients may soon have access to an important, new treatment option. The acquisition further bolsters our innovative portfolio in onco-derm therapy.”
James Oliviero, president and chief executive officer of Checkpoint, said, “This transaction will maximise value for our stockholders and provide accelerated access to UNLOXCYT in the United States, Europe and other markets worldwide.”
Checkpoint Therapeutics, listed on Nasdaq, is a commercial?stage firm focused on targeted cancer treatments. With the acquisition, it will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Pharma, giving the Indian drugmaker broader access to innovative oncology assets and strengthening its foothold in key markets, including the United States and Europe.
