Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE and SIX: ZMH) (“Zimmer”) announced today that the Japan Fair Trade Commission has granted clearance of Zimmer’s proposed acquisition of Biomet, Inc. (“Biomet”), thereby satisfying one of the conditions necessary for the consummation of the transaction.

The transaction remains subject to the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting periods under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 and the European Union Merger Regulation, as well as other customary closing conditions.

Zimmer noted that it is pleased with and encouraged by the progress to date with the overall regulatory process and expects to close the transaction in April 2015.

Under the terms of the merger agreement announced on April 24, 2014, Zimmer will acquire Biomet in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $13.35 billion, including the assumption of net debt.

Founded in 1927 and headquartered in Warsaw, Zimmer designs, develops, manufactures and markets orthopaedic reconstructive, spinal and trauma devices, dental implants and related surgical products. Zimmer has operations in more than 25 countries around the world and sells products in more than 100 countries. Zimmer’s 2014 sales were approximately $4.7 billion. Zimmer is supported by the efforts of more than 9,000 employees worldwide.