TAKEDA Pharmaceutical Company Limited, “Takeda,” has announced that it had received unconditional clearance from the Japan Fair Trade Commission for the proposed acquisition of Shire plc announced on May 8, 2018, the “Acquisition.”

The receipt of antitrust clearance in Japan is another significant step towards closing the transaction. In addition to Japan, the Acquisition has now received unconditional clearances from regulatory authorities in multiple key jurisdictions, including the United States, China and Brazil, among others.

“We are very pleased to have received unconditional clearance from the Japan Fair Trade Commission for our proposed acquisition of Shire,” Christophe Weber, president and chief executive officer of Takeda, said. “Takeda is proud of its Japanese heritage, and we are looking forward to building on this heritage as a combined company to continue delivering highly-innovative medicines that are transformative to patients in Japan and around the world.”

The acquisition remains subject to certain other conditions, including receipt of the remaining regulatory clearances and approval by the shareholders of both companies.

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) is a global, research and development-driven pharmaceutical company committed to bringing better health and a brighter future to patients by translating science into life-changing medicines. Takeda focuses its R&D efforts on oncology, gastroenterology and neuroscience therapeutic areas plus vaccines. Takeda conducts R&D both internally and with partners to stay at the leading edge of innovation. Innovative products, especially in oncology and gastroenterology, as well as Takeda’s presence in emerging markets, are currently fueling the growth of Takeda. Approximately 30,000 Takeda employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients, working with Takeda’s partners in health care in more than 70 countries. For more information, visit https://www.takeda.com/newsroom/.

– Oct. 23, 2018 @ 15:15 GMT