AmerisourceBergen in Brazil drug deal

AmerisourceBergen Corp., the pharmaceuticals distributor based in Chesterbrook, near Valley Forge, says it is investing $100 million into Profarma Distribuidora Farmaceuricos SA, a Brazilian drug wholesaler, and "will establish a joint venture" for drug distribution and services. The U.S. company will hold just under 20% of Profarma, paying 22.5 reales per share. The joint-venture will be split 50/50. AmerisourceBergen said the deal won't cause a material profit or loss this year.

Brazil's growing population and improved healthcare system will give AmerisourceBergen "a tremendous opportunity to expand our international offerings," CEO Steven H. Collis said in a statement. AmerisourceBergen brings Profarma techonology from "more evolved markets abroad," and "access to new medicines equipmnent, services and markets that currently do not exist in Brazil," Profarma CEO Sammy Birmarcker added.