Taiho Pharmaceutical to Acquire Araris Biotech in $1.1 Billion Deal
Deal News | Mar 17, 2025 | Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation
Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a company specializing in oncology and immune-related treatments, is set to acquire Araris Biotech AG, a developer of advanced antibody drug conjugates, in a transaction valued at up to $1.1 billion. Announced on March 17, 2025, the deal comprises an immediate payment of $400 million and potential milestone payments of up to $740 million. The acquisition is based on the foundation of a prior research collaboration initiated in November 2023. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati provided advisory support to Taiho Pharmaceutical for this acquisition.
Sectors
- Pharmaceuticals
- Biotechnology
- Legal Advisory
Geography
- Japan – Taiho Pharmaceutical is based in Japan and is a key player in this transaction.
- Switzerland – Araris Biotech is headquartered in Switzerland, making it geographically relevant to the transaction.
Industry
- Pharmaceuticals – Taiho Pharmaceutical operates within the pharmaceuticals industry, focusing on oncology and immune-related diseases.
- Biotechnology – Araris Biotech is part of the biotechnology sector, specializing in developing next-generation antibody drug conjugates.
- Legal Advisory – Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is a law firm that provided legal advisory services for this acquisition.
Financials
- $1.1 Billion – Total potential value of the acquisition deal between Taiho Pharmaceutical and Araris Biotech, including milestone payments.
- $400 Million – Initial payment at closing for the acquisition.
- $740 Million – Potential additional milestone payments contingent on achieving specific goals.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | Acquirer | Company | An R&D-driven specialty pharmaceutical company focusing on oncology and immune-related diseases. |
| Araris Biotech AG | Target | Company | A Swiss biotechnology company developing next-generation antibody drug conjugates. |
| Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati | Legal Advisor | Company | Advised Taiho Pharmaceutical on the acquisition of Araris Biotech. |