Immunodiagnostic Systems Holdings plc announced that it has appointed Beijing Leadman Biochemistry Technology Co, Ltd. as its exclusive distributor for the IDS-iSYS instrument and assays in the People's Republic of China. In addition, IDS and Leadman announce the signing of a research and development agreement which covers the planned conversion of over 50 of Leadman's proprietary immunoassays for use on the IDS-iSYS instrument. The distribution agreement provides Leadman with the right to market the IDS-iSYS instrument and IDS automated assays in China.

Leadman will also have the exclusive right to market, in China, assays converted for use on the IDS-iSYS assays, under the R&D agreement announced now. Leadman will act as IDS's master distributor by selling IDS products directly to laboratories as well as connecting IDS products into its nationwide distribution network. The 3 year distribution agreement will commence from the date of the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) approval of the IDS-iSYS instrument and the first IDS assay.

It is anticipated that CFDA approval will take approximately 12-14 months. During the period of the distribution agreement Leadman have committed to minimum IDS-iSYS instrument and reagent purchases. Over the initial 3 years this commitment could lead to over 300 IDS-iSYS instruments being placed by Leadman and its sub-distributors in the Chinese market.