Celltrion biosimilars gain share in Australia and New Zealand

Celltrion's anticancer drugs and autoimmune disease products are gaining market share in Australia and New Zealand, according to market data, reflecting broader uptake of biosimilars in the region.

According to IQVIA, as of the third quarter of 2025, the biosimilar Herzuma (trastuzumab), used to treat breast and gastric cancers, held more than 56 percent of the market in Australia.

In Australia, six trastuzumab products, including the originator, compete in the market. Herzuma accounts for a larger share than the combined share of the other products, according to the data.

In autoimmune disease treatments, Celltrion’s Remsima (infliximab) and Remsima SC (subcutaneous formulation) hold a combined market share of 58 percent in Australia.

Remsima SC, introduced in Australia in 2021, increased its market share from about 5 percent in 2022 to 29 percent by the third quarter of last year, one of the fastest growth rates among infliximab products in the market.

Steqeyma (ustekinumab) reached a 12 percent market share within its first quarter of sales, based on IQVIA data.

Celltrion said the results reflect the activities of its local subsidiary in Australia, including outreach to healthcare professionals and participation in academic conferences.

Celltrion Australia has promoted its products through conferences, seminars, and the sharing of clinical data with physicians. The company also works with hospitals and distributors to support supply and prescribing.

Australia’s reimbursement framework has also favored biosimilar prescribing. Under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, physicians must obtain separate approval, known as “Authority Required,” when prescribing certain originator drugs for the first time.

Biosimilars, however, can be prescribed using a “Streamlined Code,” which reduces administrative steps.

According to the company, this difference can make biosimilars easier for physicians to prescribe.

Celltrion Australia also operates patient support programs that provide educational materials, product information, and injection training.

In neighboring New Zealand, Celltrion’s oncology portfolio has also expanded.

Herzuma holds nearly 100 percent of the trastuzumab market in New Zealand, while Vegzelma (bevacizumab) has about 81 percent market share. The results reflect tender wins and coordination with Pharmac, the government agency responsible for pharmaceutical purchasing.

Celltrion plans to expand its portfolio in the region by introducing additional biosimilars, including the denosumab products Stoboclo and Osenvelt, alongside existing autoimmune treatments such as Remsima SC and Steqeyma.

The company said it will seek to broaden adoption of its products among physicians and hospitals in the region.

“Celltrion’s position in the Oceania market is strengthening, with key products showing steady prescription growth in Australia and New Zealand,” said Kim Ji-tae, regional manager for South Asia at Celltrion.