Rating History
Dissemination Date Long-Term Rating Short-Term Rating Outlook Action Rating Watch
28-Aug-26 A+ A1 Stable Maintain -
29-Aug-25 A+ A1 Stable Upgrade -
30-Aug-24 A A2 Stable Maintain -
01-Sep-23 A A2 Stable Downgrade -
02-Sep-22 A+ A1 Stable Initial -
About the Entity

MDL was incorporated in Pakistan on February 6, 1995, as an unlisted public limited Company. In 2010, MDL acquired the Roche facility in Pakistan along with the acquisition and brand licensing of the global product lines from Hoffman-La Roche, Switzerland. Mr. Ali Akhai is the ultimate beneficial owner of the Company. MDL has four members board including the Chairman, Mr. Ali Akhai, Mr. Javed Ghulam Muhammad (CEO), Mr. Abdul Samad (Group CFO), and Mr. Syed Dawood (Independent Director).

Rating Rationale

The ratings of Martin Dow Limited (hereinafter referred to as “MDL” or the “Company”) reflect the strong business profile of the Martin Dow Group (MDG), an established pharmaceutical group. MDL is an operating and holding Company of the Martin Dow Group (MDG). The Group operates through Martin Dow Limited, Martin Dow Marker Limited, Martin Dow Specialities (Private) Limited, Seattle (Private) Limited, and Martin Dow FZCO. The Group has developed a diversified presence across chronic and acute therapeutic segments, supported by a combination of strategic acquisitions, indigenous product development, and longstanding associations with leading multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Roche, Merck, Sanofi, and Boehringer Ingelheim. The acquisition of products and manufacturing assets from Roche in 2010 and Merck in 2016 has further broadened the Group’s product offering and strengthened its manufacturing capabilities and market reach. MDL’s standalone portfolio encompasses a broad range of pharmaceutical products, with leading positions in multiple molecules and a number of key brands, including Lexotanil, Synflex, Librax, Rocephin, Toradol, and Enflor. The breadth of the portfolio, coupled with the Group’s diversified operations and strategic partnerships, supports MDL’s competitive position in the local pharmaceutical market. Pakistan's pharmaceutical sector continued to grow during FY26, supported by increasing healthcare demand, population growth, and a rising prevalence of chronic and acute diseases. According to IQVIA, Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry surpassed PKR 1 trillion in annual sales, registering ~20% growth in value terms. Industry expansion remained largely price-led, while volume growth stayed relatively modest. The sector continues to benefit from favorable demographic trends and sustained healthcare demand; however, reliance on imported raw materials and exposure to exchange rate movements remain key considerations for industry participants. Within this landscape, the Martin Dow Group ranks 5th in the industry on a consolidated basis, with revenue of PKR 50.4bln in CY25 as compared to PKR 43.8bln in CY24, representing ~15% year-on-year increase. Profitability also improved across all levels, driven by localization efforts, portfolio enhancement, and a reduction in finance costs. Going forward, the Company will continue to focus on further localization initiatives, operational efficiencies, and portfolio optimization. MDL's governance framework benefits from the sponsorship and oversight of the Akhai family, which has longstanding experience in the pharmaceutical sector. MDL’s financial risk profile marked improvements, supported by adequate cash flow generation, sufficient coverage metrics, and a manageable working capital cycle. The capital structure improved in review period though it remained leveraged, with long-term borrowings primarily utilized for acquisitions and expansion, and short-term facilities employed for working capital management. Looking ahead, the Group intends to continue broadening its product portfolio, strengthening localization initiatives, and expanding its export footprint.

Key Rating Drivers

The ratings are dependent on the management's ability to sustain revenue growth and maintain profitability while preserving adequate cash flow generation. Prudent management of working capital, maintenance of sufficient liquidity and coverage levels, and keeping leverage at an appropriate level remain important rating considerations. Furthermore, continued portfolio diversification and growth in export revenues are expected to support the Company's credit profile.

Profile
Legal Structure

Martin Dow Limited (Hereinafter referred to as "MDL" or "the Company") is a public unlisted Company. It is also acting as a group holding Company. The registered office and the manufacturing plant site of the Company is located at Plot No. 37, Sector 19, KorangiIndustrial Area, Karachi - 74900, Pakistan.


Background

Akhai family entered the pharmaceutical business in 1960. After that MDL was incorporated in Pakistan on February 6, 1995, as an unlisted public limited Company under the repealed Companies Ordinance, 1984 (now the Companies Act, 2017). In 2010, MDL acquired the Roche facility in Pakistan along with the acquisition and brand licensing of the global product lines from Hoffman-La Roche, Switzerland.


Operations

MDL commenced its business on November 7, 1995. The first manufacturing facility opened for business in 2000 to manufacture and market its pharmaceutical products. It holds a portfolio of 90+ brands under its name as agroup and also markets drugs for sixteen therapeutic areas like diabetes, cardiology, multivitamins, analgesics,antibiotics, Psychostimulants, and Beta Blocking agents for pain, Tranquilizers etc. Its subsidiary Martin Dow Marker Limited is also the sole manufacturer of 'pharma grade soft gel' products such as Evion and Sangobion in the country.


Ownership
Ownership Structure

The Group remains under the effective control of Mr. Ali Akhai, who directly holds ~94% of Martin Dow Limited's shareholding as at December 2025. The ownership structure remains concentrated, providing clear strategic direction and decision making authority.


Stability

The ownership structure remained unchanged during the review period, with no material shareholder disputes or ownership transitions identified. Sponsor commitment continues to support long term business development and expansion initiatives. Martin Dow Group is positioned in the top 05 largest pharmaceutical groups operating in Pakistan (As per IQVIA). Martin Dow has strategic alliances to manufacture licensed products from international reputes like: Merck, Sanofi, Roche, P&G, and Boehringer Ingelheim, providing international expertise and exposure to operate effciently as a leading pharmaceutical group.


Business Acumen

The sponsors possess extensive pharmaceutical sector experience and have demonstrated a successful acquisition and integration track record. Previous acquisitions have strengthened the Group's product portfolio, manufacturing footprint, and competitive positioning within the domestic pharmaceutical industry.


Financial Strength

At the consolidated level, the Group's equity base increased, supported by internal capital generation and profitability. The capitalization profile provides financial resources to support operational requirements and planned business initiatives, while contributing to sponsor support. The increase in earnings and equity reflects changes in MDG's financial position and capital structure during the period. MDG maintains strategic alliances and distribution partnerships with multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Roche, Merck, Sanofi, and Procter & Gamble (P&G). These collaborations support the manufacturing and commercialization of licensed products, provide access to technical expertise, and contribute to portfolio diversification across multiple therapeutic segments. As a result, MDG operates across a range of business segments and maintains a presence in both domestic and international markets, which may support its business development objectives over time.


Governance
Board Structure

MDL has a four-member Board comprising Mr. Ali Akhai (Chairman), Mr. Javed Ghulam Muhammad (Group Managing Director & CEO), Mr. Abdul Samad (Group CFO), and Mr. Syed Dawood (Independent Director). The Board includes representation from the sponsor family, executive management, and an independent director. Mr. Dawood has been associated with MDL since 2018 and contributes international experience to the Board. Collectively, the Board members bring experience in business management, corporate leadership, finance, and legal matters, supporting the Board's oversight and decision-making responsibilities.


Members’ Profile

Mr. Ali Akhai, the Chairman, holds dual Master’s degrees from the UK and France and has been involved in the management and development of MDL, including its acquisition of Merck (Pvt.) Ltd. He joined the family business following the passing of his father, the late Mr. Jawed Akhai, founder of Martin Dow. Mr. Javed Ghulam Muhammad, the Group CEO, is a Fellow Cost & Management Accountant with more than 25 years of experience in senior roles across local and multinational organizations. Mr. Abdul Samad Haroon serves as Group CFO of Martin Dow Group and has previously worked with GSK and PwC. Mr. Syed Dawood, the Independent Director, is a lawyer with experience advising governments and multinational organizations and is a recipient of the French National Order of the Legion of Honor.


Board Effectiveness

The Board operates in accordance with applicable statutory requirements and is responsible for overseeing the Company's governance framework. Board meetings are held as required, with participation from both the Chairman and the CEO in Board deliberations. The Board comprises representatives of the sponsor family, executive management, and an independent director, providing a range of perspectives in the oversight and decision-making process. While a formal Board committee structure has not yet been established, the Board collectively oversees key matters and governance-related responsibilities, and strategic decisions are considered at the Board level.


Financial Transparency

M/s A.F. Ferguson & Co., Chartered Accountants, a member firm of PwC International, serves as the Company's external auditor. The firm issued an unqualified audit opinion on the Company's financial statements for the year ended December 2025.


Management
Organizational Structure

MDL has an organizational structure comprising functional and administrative departments led by professionals with industry experience. Department heads report to the CEO, who in turn reports to the Chairman, establishing defined reporting lines and responsibilities. The structure supports the management of the Company's operations through delegated authority, functional specialization, and coordination across departments, while providing oversight of key business activities.


Management Team

The management team is led by Mr. Javed Ghulam Muhammad, the Group Managing Director and CEO, whose career spans more than 25 years across multinational and local companies. He is supported by a team of professionals across key functions. This includes Mr. Rizwan Omar, COO (Technical), with nearly three decades of operational experience; Mr. Navaid Amir, Group Director Supply Chain, with 39 years of experience in supply chain management; Mr. Abdul Samad, Group CFO and a Fellow Chartered Accountant, with 27 years of experience in finance; and Mr. Asim Mustafa, Chief Commercial Officer, with more than 26 years of experience in sales and marketing. The management team also includes directors responsible for HR, Quality, Legal, Operations, Engineering, CSR, and IT. Collectively, the team brings experience across technical, operational, commercial, financial, and administrative functions.


Effectiveness

Although formal management committees are absent, operations are managed efficiently through clear reporting lines and experienced leadership. The depth of management experience ensures effective oversight of business functions, continuity in operations, and adherence to governance practices.


MIS

MDL has implemented SAP S/4HANA as its enterprise management system, comprising multiple integrated modules to support operations across finance, sales & marketing, production, procurement, supply chain, quality management, and human capital management. The system ensures compliance with global best practices and provides a real-time, end-to-end integrated solution for effective monitoring and control. Reporting is carried out on a monthly basis and reviewed by senior management, enabling structured oversight, operational efficiency, and informed decision-making


Control Environment

MDL has a control framework with controls implemented across its departments. The Group’s internal audit function has been outsourced to EY. In addition, KPMG has been engaged for indirect tax consultancy services, while PwC serves as the Company’s external auditor and provides direct tax consultancy services. These arrangements support the Company's audit, tax, and compliance activities through the involvement of external professional service providers.


Business Risk
Industry Dynamics

Pakistan's pharmaceutical industry continued to grow in CY25 after expanding by 21.8% YoY to PKR 963 billion in CY24, largely supported by price adjustments following deregulation of non-essential medicines. Growth remained predominantly price-led, as volume expansion was modest. As of Apr'26, the market size is estimated at approximately PKR 1.2 trillion, reflecting around 15% YoY growth, with improving contribution from volumes and new product launches. Despite favorable growth trends, the sector remains exposed to foreign exchange volatility and supply chain risks due to its dependence on imported APIs and raw materials, while profitability remains sensitive to input cost fluctuations and regulatory pricing constraints.


Relative Position

MDL as a group is the market leader in many therapeutic areas. It holds a market share of ~4% and is ranked 5th on YTD basis under the IQVIA ranking report. MD Group also represents major global pharmaceuticals players in Pakistan mainly Roche & Merck. Martin Dow Marker, the subsidiary of MDL is the only Company to have a pharma-grade Soft gel capsule manufacturing facility in the country


Revenues

During CY25, the Company reported consolidated sales of PKR 50.5bn, compared to PKR 43.8bn in CY24, representing year-on-year growth of ~15.3%. The increase in sales reflects changes in the Company's product portfolio, distribution activities, and demand across its therapeutic segments. Over the last three years, the Company has reported a generally increasing sales trend. MDL's revenues are primarily generated from its pharmaceutical business, supported by a portfolio of established products and brands. The Company's major products include Synflex, Lexotanil, Toradol, Librax, and Rocephin, which contribute to revenue generation across various therapeutic categories.


Margins

Gross margins increased in CY25, due to changes in cost management, operational efficiencies and product mix. The Group's pharmaceutical, diagnostics, and life sciences businesses contributed to earnings during the year.


Sustainability

Martin Dow Limited's product portfolio has been supported by its associations with established international pharmaceutical companies. The Company continues to pursue portfolio expansion through the introduction of new products, with a number of brands currently in the pipeline. These initiatives are expected to contribute to the Company's future business scale and product diversification.


Financial Risk
Working capital

The net cash conversion cycle (CCC) increased to ~66 days in CY25 from ~57 days in CY24, reflecting a longer working capital cycle. The increase was attributable to higher inventory holdings and an increase in receivable days during the year. Inventory levels increased in line with sales volumes, operational requirements, and product-related initiatives, while trade receivables also increased compared to the previous year.


Coverages

Free Cash Flow from Operations (FCFO) increased to PKR 7.47bn in CY25 from PKR 6.51bn in CY24. The increase was associated with higher revenues, operating performance, and cash generation from business activities during the year. FCFO remained sufficient to support working capital requirements and ongoing business investments. Finance costs declined during the review period, contributing to changes in cash flow coverage and debt servicing metrics. Overall, the Group reported higher profitability, operating cash flows, and debt coverage metrics compared to the previous year.


Capitalization

Total borrowings were recorded at PKR 12.1bn in CY25 (CY24: PKR 14.7bn), with the short-term borrowings accounting for ~44% of total borrowings. The leverage ratio stood at ~41% in CY25 (CY24: ~52%).


 
 

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(PKR mln)


Dec-25
12M
Dec-24
12M
Dec-23
12M
Audited Audited Audited
A. BALANCE SHEET
1. Non-Current Assets 23,173 21,773 17,688
2. Investments 316 313 128
3. Related Party Exposure 407 407 407
4. Current Assets 18,863 15,537 14,764
5. Total Assets 42,759 38,030 32,985
6. Current Liabilities 11,386 8,741 9,478
7. Borrowings 12,088 14,700 12,536
8. Related Party Exposure 0 0 0
9. Non-Current Liabilities 1,722 1,137 625
10. Net Assets 17,564 13,452 10,346
11. Shareholders' Equity 17,564 13,452 10,346
B. INCOME STATEMENT
1. Sales 50,498 43,814 36,302
C. CASH FLOW STATEMENT
a. Free Cash Flows from Operations (FCFO) 7,472 6,508 3,191
b. Net Cash from Operating Activities before Working Capital Changes 5,817 3,717 937
c. Changes in Working Capital (342) (2,187) (914)
1. Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 5,475 1,530 23
2. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Investing Activities (2,250) (3,825) (1,281)
3. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Financing Activities (2,686) 2,675 792
4. Net Cash generated or (Used) during the period 540 380 (466)
D. RATIO ANALYSIS
1. Performance
a. Sales Growth (for the period) 15.3% 20.7% 19.3%
b. Cash Conversion Efficiency (FCFO adjusted for Working Capital/Sales) 14.1% 9.9% 6.3%
2. Working Capital Management
a. Gross Working Capital (Average Days) 98 100 103
b. Net Working Capital (Average Days) 66 57 48
c. Current Ratio (Current Assets / Current Liabilities) 1.7 1.8 1.6
3. Coverages
a. EBITDA / Finance Cost 6.5 2.8 1.5
b. FCFO / Finance Cost+CMLTB+Excess STB 2.4 1.6 0.4
c. Debt Payback (Total Borrowings+Excess STB) / (FCFO-Finance Cost) 1.2 2.0 10.2
4. Capital Structure
a. Total Borrowings / (Total Borrowings+Shareholders' Equity) 40.8% 52.2% 54.8%
b. Entity Average Borrowing Rate 12.4% 20.5% 20.6%

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