Emcure and Axmed Unite to Combat Maternal and Newborn Mortality: A Bold Step Toward Equitable Healthcare Access

Basel, Switzerland, 6th March 2025 – In a bold and transformative step to tackle one of the most urgent global health challenges, Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a leading Indian pharma company, and Axmed, a pioneering B2B medicines marketplace dedicated to serving low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), have joined forces to combat the devastating burden of maternal and newborn mortality in these underserved regions.

This new partnership expands access to Ferric Carboxy Maltose (FCM), a rapid-acting intravenous iron therapy crucial for treating severe iron deficiency anemia, particularly in expectant mothers. Through Axmed’s unique ability to aggregate demand and leverage economies of scale, FCM will be offered at an exclusive access price for buyers purchasing through the Axmed platform. Institutional buyers can register for free on the Axmed platform, reinforcing Axmed’s commitment to expanding access to essential medicines in LMICs and ensuring that governments and impact-driven organizations can secure this life-saving treatment affordably and at scale.

Why This Matters
Iron deficiency anemia is a silent crisis, disproportionately impacting pregnant women and contributing to over 20% of maternal deaths in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as increasing the risks of preterm births and low birth weights. Alarmingly, more than 40% of pregnant women globally suffer from anemia, with the heaviest burden falling on LMICs. This partnership is a bold response to those staggering statistics—because no mother or newborn should have their futures stolen by preventable conditions.

A Vision for Healthier Futures
Driven by a shared purpose, Emcure and Axmed are committed to transforming Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH). Together, they aim to ensure that high-quality, affordable solutions like FCM reach the communities that need them most.

“At Axmed, we are powered by the belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege,” said Emmanuel Akpakwu, CEO of Axmed. “This partnership with Emcure reflects the tangible impact we’re creating for underserved populations. By leveraging our innovative marketplace model, we’re bridging gaps that have too long hindered access to life-saving solutions. We envision a world where no mother or newborn is left behind.”

Collaboration for Systemic Change
The partnership goes beyond transactions – it represents a shared commitment to innovating for impact. Emcure’s expertise in producing high-quality FCM and Axmed’s unique procurement platform combine to tackle systemic barriers to healthcare delivery. FCM in particular stands as a cornerstone in MNCH, delivering life-saving impact where it’s needed most to reduce maternal and newborn mortality. Its significance transcends anemia, however, addressing diverse health needs in a wide spectrum of therapeutic areas, including gynecology, cardiology, blood related disorders, oncology, respiratory and HIV, underscoring its transformative potential across healthcare.

“At Emcure, we believe in the power of collaboration to unlock possibilities and transform lives,” said Satish Mehta, CEO and Managing Director, Emcure Pharmaceuticals. “This partnership with Axmed is a testament to what can be achieved when purpose and innovation align. Together, we’re advancing maternal and newborn health, demonstrating our commitment to affordable healthcare globally, and creating a ripple effect of positive change”

Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Maternal and newborn health is at a crossroads, and partnerships like this are catalysts for change. “FCM is more than a treatment—it’s a lifeline,” said Felix Ohnmacht, Chief Commercial Officer of Axmed. “Through our partnership, we’re not just aggregating demand; we’re amplifying hope and delivering impact where it’s needed most. By securing a unique access price on FCM for Axmed’s platform, we’re creating a unique opportunity for governments and organizations to access this life-saving solution affordably. Every mother saved and every newborn given a chance at life underscores why this work matters.”

About Emcure Pharmaceuticals
Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (EPL) is a leading Indian pharma company headquartered in Pune, India engaged in developing, manufacturing and globally marketing a broad range of pharmaceutical products. Known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and patient-centricity, Emcure is an R&D driven company that develops and manufactures a wide range of differentiated pharmaceutical products designed to improve patient health and well-being across several major therapeutic areas. Established in 1981, EPL is ranked as the 12th largest pharma company in India in terms of Domestic Sales for MAT June 2024. Emcure is present in 70+ countries globally including Europe and Canada.

About Axmed
Axmed is an innovative healthcare venture focused on transforming access to medicines across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Through its robust digital platform, Axmed operates a two-sided B2B marketplace that bridges the gap between pharmaceutical manufacturers/suppliers and healthcare providers, ensuring a steady, affordable supply of critical medicines. By leveraging technology, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by LMICs, Axmed is committed to fostering sustainable health outcomes and accelerating global health equity.

Media contact:
Emcure media contact: naveen.soni@emcure.com
Axmed media contact: info@axmed.com