A few observations from the Ajanta Annual Report FY2023-24:
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As per IQVIA MAT March 2024, Ajanta’s faster growth is contributed mainly by volumes and new launches. Volume was about 2x to IPM, and new launches were about 1.4x to IPM.
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In India, over 50 % of the 300+ strong product portfolio is first-to-market.
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During the year, manufacturing facilities at Paithan and Dahej have cleared the US FDA inspections with zero observations (among 4 % in the world).
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During the year, 7 new ANDAs were filed, 6 ANDA approvals received. Totally 44 products available on shelf and 22 ANDAs are awaiting approval with the US FDA.
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In India, a total of 10 Dossiers filed to DCG(I) for Domestic Market. DCG(I) Approval for 6 products received including 3 products approvals for 1st time in country - 2 for products having novel triple drug combination of antihypertensive therapeutic category and 1 for new dosage form (Jelly) for drug of 1 therapeutic category.
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A total of 516 product Dossiers filed for export registration in ROW markets and 469 approvals received.
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Strengthened the branded generics business by penetrating deeper into existing markets, expanding into new promising countries, and increasing field force to widen reach with medical professionals through segment-focused marketing.
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Scaled up margins on the back of the enhanced contribution of Branded Generics business and normalisation of freight costs. Saved about 300 basis points in API procurement and Rs.100 crore in logistics costs during the year. EBITDA margin stood at 28 % which is among the best in the industry. Expect this to now remain at this level or see small improvement in coming years.
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One of the key additions to the company’s capability during the year was the first-ever ‘Form Fill Seal’ machine for drinkable ampoules at one of the facilities. A drinkable ampoule is an airtight container that holds a single dose of liquid medication for patient use and the company is probably the first in India to use this technology.
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Commissioned a new 6.4 MW solar power plant at Partur in Maharashtra, taking renewable energy portfolio to 30 %+ of total energy consumption. Aim to take this to 50 % in the next two years and 100 % by FY2032.
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In FY 2025, expect the U.S. business to grow at a much slower pace in the wake of fewer launches, that too towards the end of the financial year.
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No new capex expected in FY25 except maintenance capex estimated to be about Rs.250 cr.
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Five growth levers:
- New product launches across markets
- Increased market share in existing products
- Increasing the field presence as needed
- Add new countries
- Focus on digitalization & data analytics
(Disc.: Invested)