Samsung Biologics splits into distinct entities
Seoul (donderdag, 22 mei ‘25)
Samsung Biologics divides into a pure CDMO and a holding for biosimilars named Samsung Epis Holdings, emphasizing strategic growth and reducing potential conflicts in business operations.
Strategic Separation and Leadership
Samsung Biologics announced the corporate split on May 22, 2025, through a public disclosure. The newly formed Samsung Epis Holdings will be led by Kim Kyung-a, who will maintain her concurrent position as CEO of Samsung Bioepis [1][2]. The separation aims to enhance strategic focus and eliminate potential conflicts between the Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) business and biosimilar operations [1].
Timeline and Share Distribution
The corporate restructuring follows a precise timeline, with the securities registration statement due on July 29, followed by a shareholders’ meeting on September 16. Samsung Epis Holdings will officially launch on October 1, 2025, with Samsung Bioepis becoming its wholly-owned subsidiary [3]. Existing shareholders will receive shares in both companies according to a fixed ratio of 0.6503913:0.3496087 (Samsung Biologics:Samsung Epis Holdings) [1]. Trading of Samsung Biologics shares will be temporarily suspended from September 29 until October 28, 2025 [2].
Business Focus and Future Strategy
Post-split, Samsung Biologics will operate as a pure-play CDMO, focusing on strengthening its global position through three strategic pillars: production capacity, portfolio diversification, and global expansion [3]. The company plans to enhance its CDMO capabilities while investing in new business areas including antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), adeno-associated virus (AAV), and pre-filled syringes (PFS) [1]. Meanwhile, Samsung Epis Holdings aims to establish Samsung Bioepis as the world’s leading biosimilar company, targeting a portfolio of more than 20 biosimilar products [3].
Market Impact and Industry Response
According to John Rim, CEO of Samsung Biologics, this strategic split represents a proactive response to rapidly changing global market conditions [1]. The separation addresses potential conflicts of interest with CDMO clients and provides investors with clearer investment options based on different revenue models [3]. The move comes amid increasing uncertainty in international trade environments and pharmaceutical pricing policies, demonstrating the company’s commitment to maintaining competitive advantages in both CDMO and biosimilar markets [1].