Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited (KINTOR PHARMA-B, 09939) announced that its wholly-owned unit, Suzhou Kintor Pharmaceuticals, has signed an exclusive strategic cooperation framework agreement with Shanghai Chicmax Cosmetic Co., Ltd. (02145) focused on the rapid commercialisation of KT-939, a proprietary whitening and freckle-removing cosmetic raw material.

Under the agreement, Suzhou Kintor and Chicmax will: • Jointly seek regulatory registration of KT-939 as a new cosmetic ingredient and submit related product filings. • Collaborate on R&D and customisation of formulations featuring KT-939, positioning the compound as an “ultimate domestic whitening agent.” • Coordinate market launch activities, leveraging Chicmax’s multi-brand operating expertise and distribution network to accelerate product roll-out.

Strategic rationale: • Kintor plans to channel cash flows generated from KT-939’s functional-ingredient sales into the ongoing development and commercialisation of its core pharmaceutical candidates KX-826 and GT20029, while maintaining focus on its existing listed-business portfolio. • The alliance combines Chicmax’s 20-year track record in skin-care branding, marketing and supply-chain management with Kintor’s drug-discovery capabilities, aiming to strengthen domestic innovation in cosmetic whitening ingredients.

Both companies regard the cooperation terms as conducted on normal commercial bases and expect the partnership to enhance their respective market positions and drive long-term growth.

Cautionary note: Shareholders and potential investors are advised to exercise caution when dealing in KINTOR PHARMA-B shares.