Colorcon, a specialist in film coatings, excipients, and controlled release technologies, has announced an exclusive partnership with ASHA Cellulose, a manufacturer of ethyl cellulose polymers used across pharmaceutical and dietary supplement applications.

Under the agreement, Colorcon will become the exclusive representative for ASHA’s ethyl cellulose product range in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia, including Northeast and Southeast Asia.

The partnership includes Ashacel, a range of multifunctional, water-insoluble, organo-soluble cellulose ethers used as binders, film formers, taste-masking and time-release agents, and rheology modifiers. It also includes Ashakote, a 30% aqueous ethyl cellulose dispersion developed for sustained release, moisture control, and taste masking—particularly suited to regions where organic solvents are not permitted.

Kurt Fegely, vice president of excipient technologies at Colorcon, said the collaboration expands the company’s ability to support customers working on barrier membrane and multiparticulate systems. “ASHA has been a leader in the cellulosic polymer space for more than 25 years,” he said. “Together, we combine a strong product portfolio with regulatory strength and proven expertise in controlled release applications.”

Raju Shah, President of ASHA Cellulose, commented: “We have built our Ashacel and Ashakote products through in-house innovation and robust manufacturing. This partnership enables us to match that with Colorcon’s technical strengths and customer reach.”

Simon Tasker, chief executive officer at Colorcon, added: “This is another example of our commitment to supporting the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. By working together, we’re enhancing our global offering in terms of product range, quality, technical support, and supply reliability.”

The partnership will officially begin on May 15.