May 11, 2026
 

Ceva Animal Health and Mitsui form joint venture to create full-line animal health company in Japan

The merger of Bussan Animal Health and Ceva Japan creates a consolidated platform combining 75 years of local market heritage with global innovation capabilities.

Ceva Animal Health and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. have announced the creation of Ceva Bussan Animal Health, a new joint venture combining Bussan Animal Health and Ceva Japan, as part of a deepened strategic partnership between the two companies in the Japanese animal health market.

As part of the transaction, Mitsui transferred 60% of its shareholding in Bussan Animal Health to Ceva, which will operate the joint venture as controlling shareholder. In parallel, Mitsui made an additional strategic equity investment in Ceva, further reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two companies.

Bussan Animal Health brings 75 years of experience in the Japanese market and generated approximately €40 million in revenue in 2025, with a strong presence in the veterinary channel. Ceva Japan contributes commercial, marketing and regulatory capabilities alongside a portfolio covering swine, ruminant and pet health products. Together, the joint venture will offer a broader product range spanning livestock and pet health, including over-the-counter pet products.

Tadahiro Ohashi, former Managing Director of Ceva Japan, has been appointed chief executive officer of Ceva Bussan Animal Health. Akito Umeda, former chief executive of Bussan Animal Health, will serve as deputy chief executive, ensuring operational continuity.

Marc Prikazsky, Executive Chairman of Ceva Animal Health, said the joint venture positions the combined entity to better serve veterinarians, farmers and pet owners in Japan. "This joint venture reflects our long-standing commitment to the Japanese market and our ambition to accelerate growth by building strong, local partnerships," he said.

Toshitaka Inuzuka, Chief Operating Officer of the Nutrition and Agriculture Business Unit at Mitsui, said the joint venture would serve as a core platform underpinning the collaboration between the two companies. "Combining the respective strengths of BAH and Ceva to support the sustainable growth of the Japanese animal health market," he said.

- Ceva Animal Health