Established in 2005, the company introduced its first locally manufactured products in 2008. Sixteen years later, after navigating challenges and capitalising on opportunities, Radiant now stands among the top ten pharmaceutical companies in the country, driven by its focus on innovation, quality, and strategic expansion.

Through a combination of organic growth, research-driven development, and international partnerships, Radiant has built a robust presence across almost all therapeutic segments.

The company currently exports medicines to eleven countries in Africa and Asia and is preparing to expand into Europe and Latin America, aiming to position itself as one of Bangladesh’s leading exporters of life-saving medicines.

“Our journey has been full of challenges and milestones,” said Md Nasser Shahrear Zahedee, Chairman of Radiant Pharmaceuticals Limited, in an interview with the Daily Sun.

“Through dedication, resilience, and the trust of our stakeholders, Radiant has evolved into a symbol of quality and reliability. That trust continues to inspire us to uphold global standards and deliver excellence in healthcare.”

Radiant’s growth has also been fuelled by a series of strategic acquisitions. Over the years, the company has acquired Pharmacil (2011), Julphar Bangladesh (2020), and, most recently, a 60% stake in Novartis Bangladesh Limited (December 2024), partnering with the global Swiss brand to strengthen its portfolio.

These acquisitions, combined with Radiant’s in-house research and development, have enabled the company to deliver a comprehensive product mix that caters to the evolving healthcare needs of Bangladesh.

With a vision to bring Bangladeshi pharmaceuticals up to global standards, Radiant continues to balance its commitment to quality, accessibility, and innovation – a formula that is reshaping the country’s healthcare landscape.

COMMITMENT TO GLOBAL STANDARDS

Amid an increasingly competitive and evolving market, Radiant emphasises quality and global collaboration. “Healthy competition drives progress and helps ensure the best outcomes for patients and the medical community through the maintenance of ethical practices,” Zahedee notes.

The company works closely with thirteen multinational partners, importing life-saving, research-based medicines and maintaining strict global quality standards.

Radiant has also begun exporting its products, reaching eleven countries across Africa and Asia, including Nigeria. Plans are underway to expand into Europe and Latin America in the coming years.

“We have a three-year roadmap to become one of Bangladesh’s leading pharmaceutical exporters,” Zahedee adds.

MEDICINES FOR ALL

Radiant’s contributions to the healthcare sector are significant. While Bangladesh’s overall health system still struggles to reach remote areas, the pharmaceutical industry ensures that essential medicines are accessible nationwide.

“Pharmaceutical companies, along with chemists and pharmacists, have played a critical role in distributing medicines even in rural regions,” Zahedee emphasises.

Despite rising costs of raw materials – 95% of which are imported – Radiant continues to offer medicines at some of the lowest prices globally.

Zahedee stresses the need for logical, supportive government policies on medicine pricing to ensure sustainability and continued production.

FUTURE PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

Looking ahead, Radiant sees a promising future for Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical sector. Zahedee highlights two priorities for government support: providing incentives for the industry and ensuring strict quality control through regulatory bodies.

With these measures, he believes the industry can deliver quality medicines and meet growing domestic and international demand.

Radiant is also venturing into biotechnology, focusing on insulin and anti-cancer drugs.

Zahedee envisions that within the next five years, Radiant could be not only a leading domestic pharmaceutical company but also a top exporter, strengthening Bangladesh’s footprint in global markets.

“Our ambition is to grow responsibly, maintain quality, and serve people with life-saving medicines,” he concludes.

“With dedication, collaboration, and the grace of Almighty Allah, we are confident that Radiant will continue to make a meaningful impact, both at home and abroad.”