Halbjahreszahlen 2026 – Patentjäger Sandoz ist gut unterwegs

Sandoz, a leading manufacturer of biosimilars and generic drugs, has reported a strong performance in the first half of 2026, with revenue rising 10 percent year-on-year to $5.8 billion and net income increasing by 9 percent to $3 billion. The company, which separated from its parent firm Novartis in October 2023, continues to benefit from its strategic focus on biosimilars, copies of complex biological medicines, which accounted for exactly one-third of total sales during the period. This represents the highest share ever recorded for this segment within the company’s history. Analysts attribute much of the growth to Sandoz's successful expansion of its biosimilar portfolio and its ability to maintain competitive pricing despite challenges in the pharmaceutical industry. The separation from Novartis allowed Sandoz to operate independently, positioning itself more effectively in the global market. While Novartis improved its overall margins by shedding the lower-margin generic drug business, Sandoz leveraged its heritage and infrastructure while building new production facilities. One such facility is under construction in Slovenia, complementing existing manufacturing sites inherited from Novartis. The independent status has also boosted investor confidence, with Sandoz shares set to enter the Swiss Market Index (SMI) in September, reflecting increased demand and market recognition. Sandoz traces its origins back to 1886 as a dye factory before transitioning into pharmaceutical research in 1917. Over time, it expanded significantly in both medicine and chemistry, acquiring brands such as Ovomaltine, Wasa, and Gerber. In 1995, the chemical division became Clariant, and in 1996, Sandoz merged with Ciba-Geigy to form Novartis. By 2003, Novartis consolidated its generic drug operations under the Sandoz brand. The recent independence marks a return to standalone operations after nearly two decades under Novartis. Despite its success in biosimilars, Sandoz faces ongoing challenges in antibiotic production at its facility in Kundl, Tyrol. The plant produces penicillin, a critical raw material for antibiotics, and holds historical significance as the last European producer of this substance. However, financial pressures persist due to competition from Chinese manufacturers, making the antibiotic segment less profitable. Nevertheless, Sandoz remains committed to maintaining the Kundl site, recognizing its importance for both biosimilar production and corporate image. Looking ahead, Sandoz plans to launch weight-loss medications in Brazil, where patent protections have expired. In the United States, patents for certain key weight-loss drugs will not expire until 2031, but Sandoz has already begun preparing for the development of generic versions of these products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is currently reviewing initial proposals, though no formal approval has yet been granted. Analysts suggest that while the U.S. and Europe remain crucial markets, China is not a primary target for Sandoz’s expansion efforts, as other competitors hold stronger positions there. The company’s long-term strategy focuses on continuous innovation and diversification of its product offerings. With biosimilars driving current growth, Sandoz aims to introduce new products to sustain momentum. Its ability to navigate regulatory environments and secure market access in key regions will determine future success. As the pharmaceutical landscape evolves, Sandoz’s role as a major player in the biosimilar sector is likely to grow further, supported by its established reputation and operational capabilities.