Highlights

  • FY26 sales set to reach record levels, with operating earnings guided at $20–24 million
  • Partnership with Mark Cuban-backed Cost Plus to distribute Maxigesic Rapid in the US
  • International expansion continues, including South Africa integration and R&D progress on novel injectable iron

AFT Pharmaceuticals Limited (NZX: AFT) reported sustained growth across all markets in FY26, with record sales anticipated and operating earnings within the $20–24 million guidance range. The company remains on track to achieve its FY27 revenue target of $300 million, supported by strong domestic performance and global expansion. Key initiatives include a US partnership with Mark Cuban-backed Cost Plus to distribute Maxigesic Rapid nationwide, expanding access to patients across 50 states. In South Africa, the integration of Pharma Dynamics’ hospital business has increased the product portfolio from four to seventeen items. Additionally, AFT is advancing a novel injectable iron therapy through a pivotal global clinical study, targeting a potential $7.4 billion market. These efforts underscore AFT’s strategy of innovation, international growth, and operational excellence to maintain long-term momentum.

US Expansion and Maxigesic Rapid

AFT Pharmaceuticals is now distributing Maxigesic Rapid (marketed in the US as Combogesic Rapid) through Cost Plus, a public-benefit pharmacy founded in 2022 by Mark Cuban. Cost Plus offers medicines online and via affiliated pharmacies at cost plus a 15% markup, reaching all 50 US states. This partnership allows AFT to target major US markets while Alexso and Hikma continue to handle other distribution channels, including intravenous formulations. The company is also expanding its US portfolio with Liposachet, Kiwisoothe, and Optisoothe products, available on Amazon. This strategy leverages AFT’s Australasian experience to accelerate North American growth and broaden its consumer base, enhancing brand presence and market penetration.

South Africa Integration and Iron R&D

In South Africa, AFT successfully integrated Pharma Dynamics’ hospital business, expanding the local product range from four to seventeen items. The company has streamlined operations, reduced costs, and added staff in finance, logistics, and regulatory affairs to support continued growth. On the research front, AFT is progressing a novel injectable iron therapy, designed to reduce dosing frequency, minimize side effects, and lower toxicity compared to oral or existing intravenous treatments. A pivotal global clinical study, co-funded with partner Hyloris, will involve 1,360 patients across New Zealand, India, China, Japan, Armenia, Europe, and the US. With a projected $7.4 billion market, this therapy, along with AFT’s broader development pipeline, strengthens the company’s international expansion and innovation strategy.