Biomerieux and Shanghai Kehua Bio-Engineering Build Joint Venture

Regulatory News: Shanghai Kehua Bio-engineering (Stock Code: 002022) and bioMérieux (Paris:BIM) announce the creation of a Shanghai-based joint venture to which bioMérieux will transfer microplate immunoassay manufacturing currently located at its Boxtel site in the Netherlands. bioMérieux will hold 60% of the capital in the joint venture. This alliance brings together Kehua’s strong manufacturing and development capabilities with bioMérieux’s expertise in immunoassays and infectious disease diagnostics. The microplate line manufactured by the joint venture will be distributed by bioMérieux in the Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia-Pacific (including China) and Latin America regions. The two companies are also exploring opportunities for bioMérieux to distribute Kehua’s diagnostics through its extensive global network as part of a broader, long-term partnership. "bioMérieux is a world famous company in the field of diagnostics, with extensive experience and strong global reputation. The cooperation will benefit both parties from brand image, sales network and complementary products pipeline,” stated Tang Wei Guo, Board Chairman of Kehua. "Kehua is the market leader in Chinese diagnostics, with a proven track record of providing high quality, cost-efficient products,” stated Stéphane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of bioMérieux. "Microplate immunoassays play an important role in public health. The alliance with Kehua will enable bioMérieux to provide this product line to our customers at a competitive price, thanks to an improved cost structure,” he added. The transfer of manufacturing will be made progressively during 2008 and 2009 until the Dutch site’s closure. This follows a decision communicated earlier in January to transfer other Boxtel site activities to locations in France. About Shanghai Kehua Bio-engineering A leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of diagnostics in China for over 20 years, Kehua has a significant and growing presence in China with its rich scale production experience, expensive pipeline of products and good brand image. About bioMérieux Advancing Diagnostics to Improve Public Health A world leader in the field of in vitro diagnostics for over 40 years, bioMérieux is present in more than 150 countries through 36 subsidiaries and a large network of distributors. In 2007, revenues reached €1.063 billion with 84% of sales outside of France. bioMérieux provides diagnostic solutions (reagents, instruments, software) which determine the source of disease and contamination to improve patient health and ensure consumer safety. Our products are used for diagnosing infectious diseases and providing high medical value results for cardiovascular emergencies and cancer screening and monitoring. They are also used for detecting microorganisms in agri-food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. bioMérieux is listed on Euronext Paris. Other information can be found at www.biomerieux.com.