Daewoong Pharmaceutical’s botulinum toxin Nabota has acquired the United Arab Emirates and Indonesian health authorities’ approvals for forehead wrinkle smoothening functions, the company said Thursday.

This is the first time a Korean BTX has forayed into the two countries, characterized by their halal customs and the untapped, sizable markets.

“Both UAE and Indonesia are posting continuous growth of their pharmaceuticals markets,” said Park Sung-soo, head of Daewoong’s Nabota business.

“UAE is a hub nation among the Middle Eastern countries, and would serve as a bridge for Nabota’s future expansion in the region. As for Indonesia, the country has the fourth-largest population and a vast growth potential,” said Park.

Nabota now has commercialization approvals in 50 countries, and has prearranged sales partnerships in 80 countries.

Nabota will be available in UAE and Indonesia from the first half of 2020. In UAE, Daewoong’s local partner Dansys will oversee the sales.

By Lim Jeong-yeo (kaylalim@heraldcorp.com)