India-based contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) Syngene International has announced the acquisition of its first biologics manufacturing facility in the United States, marking a significant expansion of its global operations. The company will invest approximately $50 million in the Baltimore-area facility, including $36.5 million for the acquisition from Emergent BioSolutions and an additional $13.5 million for renovations and upgrades.
The strategic move comes as pharmaceutical companies increasingly seek to onshore production amid rising global trade tensions and supply chain concerns. The acquisition is expected to close in March 2025, with the facility becoming operational for client projects in the second half of 2025.
Strategic Expansion into US Market
The Baltimore facility, acquired through Syngene's wholly owned subsidiary Syngene USA, is equipped with multiple monoclonal antibody (mAb) manufacturing lines and will significantly enhance the company's biologics capabilities. The site is strategically located near key biotech hubs in the Northeast United States, positioning Syngene to better serve its growing North American client base.
"With one of the largest biologics R&D teams and commercial scale manufacturing capabilities in both India and the USA, we now offer a compelling and flexible solution for global pharma and biotech customers," said Peter Bains, CEO Designate of Syngene International. "This investment will enable Syngene to cater to growing client requirements in an expanding market. It will also provide clients access to collective service capability of multiple geographic sites, scientists and experience."
Enhanced Manufacturing Capacity
The acquisition will increase Syngene's total single-use bioreactor capacity to 50,000 liters for large molecule discovery, development, and manufacturing services. This expanded capacity will complement the company's existing facilities in Bengaluru, India, creating a robust global network capable of supporting clients throughout the drug development lifecycle.
The Baltimore facility includes laboratory space, warehousing, office areas, and production lines specifically designed for monoclonal antibodies—proteins that play a crucial role in immune response and are increasingly important in modern therapeutics. This infrastructure will allow Syngene to offer comprehensive services ranging from cell line development and process optimization to clinical and commercial supply.
Meeting Market Demands
Syngene anticipates strong demand for the US facility from multiple sectors. American mAb developers seeking direct access to onshore production will benefit from the local manufacturing capabilities, while international innovators looking for US-based manufacturing options will gain a valuable new resource.
The animal health segment, where US-based manufacturing is often a key client requirement, represents another significant market opportunity for the expanded operation. Current Syngene clients include major pharmaceutical and biotech companies such as Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck, and Zoetis.
As part of the acquisition agreement, Emergent BioSolutions has secured the right to manufacturing capacity from the facility in the future, representing potential business from US-based innovators and possible pandemic response production.
Economic and Industry Impact
Syngene's investment in its first US facility represents a strategic commitment to the American market, with significant potential benefits for the local economy and broader life sciences industry. The facility is expected to create jobs, stimulate local economic activity, and strengthen domestic biologics manufacturing capabilities.
The move also contributes to pharmaceutical innovation and supply chain resilience—critical concerns highlighted during recent global disruptions. The investment demonstrates the potential for deeper economic collaboration between India and the United States in the pharmaceutical sector.
Addressing Supply Chain Resilience
The acquisition comes at a time when pharmaceutical companies worldwide are reassessing their supply chains in response to geopolitical tensions and pandemic-related disruptions. By establishing manufacturing capabilities in both India and the United States, Syngene is positioning itself to provide continuity of supply and mitigate risks associated with single-geography operations.
This dual-continent approach allows Syngene to offer clients flexibility in their manufacturing strategies while maintaining consistent quality standards across all facilities. The company's expanded global footprint will enable it to navigate complex regulatory environments and adapt to changing market conditions more effectively.
The Baltimore facility, which was previously closed following contamination issues, will undergo significant renovations to ensure it meets Syngene's quality standards before becoming operational. The company's experience in biologics manufacturing and quality control will be crucial in successfully bringing the facility online and integrating it into its global operations.
