Basilea Pharmaceutica AG announced on April 24, 2025, that strong sales of the antifungal Cresemba® (Isavuconazole) in Japan have triggered a second revenue milestone payment from Asahi Kasei Pharma (AKP) amounting to approximately CHF 1.7 million. This marks the second payment within two consecutive quarters, indicating a sustained high market momentum.
Background and Significance
- Product Performance: Cresemba is marketed in over 70 countries and achieved global in-market sales of USD 562 million from January to December 2024, representing a growth of 19% year-over-year. It is thus regarded as the world’s leading antifungal for invasive fungal infections.
- Japan as a Key Market: The repeated milestone payments underscore the strategic importance of Japan with its long-term growth potential. David Veitch, CEO of Basilea, emphasized the “critical medical need” for the product in patients with life-threatening fungal infections.
Implications for Investors
- Partnership Stability: The consistently achieved milestones suggest a successful collaboration with AKP, which strengthens confidence in Basilea’s licensing strategy.
- Future Projections: Sustained sales success could lead to further milestone payments or revenue shares, contributing to the diversification of revenue sources.
This news not only underscores the clinical relevance of Cresemba but also its commercial potential – a crucial factor for valuations in the biopharmaceutical sector.