AstraHR history

1995: Astra begins to diversify its operations by acquiring palm oil, rubber, and other plantations.

Sales: SKr39 billion (US$5.4 billion) (1996)

The investments paid off with six new pharmaceuticals scheduled for launch in 1997, including the Oxis Turbuhaler asthma treatment; Naropin, a derivative of Xylocaine that merged a local anesthetic with painkilling qualities; MUSE, a treatment for impotence; and the anti-hypertensive Atacand.

At the same time, Indonesia slipped into recession, slashing automobile purchases, and sinking Astra into losses of some $200 million by 1998.

By 1999, the company was once again posting profits.

The IBRA at last found a new suitor for Astra in 2000, selling 40 percent of the company to a consortium led by Cycle & Carriage Ltd., based in Singapore and controlled by Hong Kong's Jardine Strategic Holdings.

The company's operations have long centered around its core automotive manufacturing and distribution business, which remains its largest division, at nearly 83 percent of total sales of IDR 31 trillion ($3.7 billion) in 2002.

In February 2003, Astra launched a successful rights issue, raising more than $160 million--including $80 million from Cycle & Carriage, which boosted its own shareholding to more than 34 percent.

GM Europe launched Astra H/ C in March 2004.

By the end of 2005, estate and coupé versions were also launched.

In 2006, the Astra TwinTop arrived.

The Saturn Astra debuted during the 2007 Chicago Auto Show.

In 2008, sales of the Astra commenced in the United States and Canada, where it is sold as the Saturn Astra.

While continuing to pursue its historically successful drug derivation strategy, Astra also aimed to add new therapeutic concentrations to its repertoire--gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, pain control, anti-infective, and central nervous system--by 2010.