Fujifilm says to launch 64.4 bln yen bid for Toyama

TOKYO, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Digital camera and medical equipment maker Fujifilm Holdings Corp (4901.T: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) said on Wednesday it will launch a 64.4 billion yen ($600 million) bid for 66 percent of drug maker Toyama Chemical Co Ltd (4518.T: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz).

Fujifilm said it would offer 880 yen per Toyama Chemical share, a 39 percent premium to Toyama Chemical's latest close.

Taisho Pharmaceutical Co Ltd (4535.T: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), Toyama Chemical's top shareholder, will own 34 percent in Toyama Chemical, Fujifilm said in a release.

The three firms are slated to brief on the alliance at 0530 GMT. (Reporting by Edwina Gibbs)