US OKs Sanofi’s Genzyme bid; French strike hits Romainville plant
Sanofi Aventis has been given the go ahead to pursue US biotech Genzyme by the country’s antitrust authorities.
The French drugmaker, whose pursuit of Genzyme and its portfolio of lucrative, high price drugs has turned acrimonious in recent months, told Reuters the Hart-Scott Rodino antitrust waiting period had expired.
The expiry clears the way for Sanofi to continue its efforts to convince Genzyme shareholders of the benefits of the proposed of a takeover.
French strike
In other news, Sanofi has been caught up in the widespread strike action currently sweeping Frend industry.
According to a Bousier report, Sanofi employees belonging to the CGT union blockaded the firm’smanufacturing facility in Romainville.
A CGT spokesman told the newswire that Sanofi “has refused to consider proposals for continuation of activities and jobs on the site."
