The investment will strengthen WuXi Biologics’ global research, development and manufacturing network to meet the growing demand from clients worldwide for end-to-end services

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WuXi Biologics to expand in Singapore. (Credit: CDC on Unsplash)

WuXi Biologics, a China-based contract research, development and manufacturing organisation (CRDMO), is set to invest $1.4bn for 10 years to enhance its operations in Singapore.

Under the investment plan, the company will expand its research, development, and large-scale drug substance and drug product (DS/DP) manufacturing capacity.

It will build a new biomanufacturing facility that will add 120,000L capacity by 2026, and employ 1,500 skilled people for research, development and manufacturing.

The current plan follows WuXi Biologics’ continued investments in the US, Ireland, Germany and China.

It is supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).

EDB chairman Beh Swan Gin said: “We warmly welcome WuXi Bio’s plan. The investments will establish Singapore as a significant node in the company’s global research, development and manufacturing network.

“It is a testament to Singapore’s position as a global biopharmaceutical hub, and will strengthen our attractiveness to biotech innovators and start-ups.”

WuXi Biologics said that its capacity expansion in Singapore will play a crucial role in its global supply chain network.

In addition, the new biomanufacturing facility will strengthen the company’s Global Dual Sourcing strategy, which ensures the fulfilment of projects at multiple facilities worldwide.

WuXi Biologics offers end-to-end solutions that enable partners to discover, develop and manufacture biologics from concept to commercialisation.

WuXi Biologics CEO Chris Chen said: “Singapore has established itself as one of the most advanced pharmaceutical hubs in the world.

“As a trusted partner to global healthcare companies and a strong contributor to the local community, WuXi Biologics’ investment in the new CRDMO centre will enhance the sustainable growth and success of the Singapore biotech ecosystem and enable the global biologics industry with a more robust supply chain.

“With the support of EDB and our local partners in Singapore, WuXi Biologics looks forward to moving ahead with this important project to enable global partners and benefit patients worldwide.”

Earlier this month, the company announced the expansion of its MFG14 facility in Hangzhou, China, to manufacture microbial-derived products.