Samsung Biologics enters US manufacturing market with $280m GSK facility acquisition

Samsung Biologics has entered the US manufacturing market for the first time, acquiring a biopharmaceutical production facility in Maryland from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in a deal valued at $280m.

The contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) said the purchase of GSK’s former Human Genome Sciences site marked a significant expansion of its global manufacturing footprint and reflected its long-term commitment to supporting the US biopharmaceutical industry and domestic supply chain.

The Maryland facility currently has the capacity to produce up to 60,000 litres of drug substance. Samsung Biologics said it plans to invest further in the site to expand production capacity as it strengthens its presence in the US market.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said: “We are thrilled that Samsung Biologics has selected Maryland for their first U.S. manufacturing facility, a testament to our state’s leadership in life sciences, our highly-skilled workforce and the commitment of our private and public sector to advance patient health around the globe.

“During our Asia trade mission, we were excited to share with Samsung Biologics executives the many reasons why Maryland is an ideal foothold from which the company can execute its long-term strategy to expand in the U.S. market.”

Samsung Biologics Chief Executive Officer and President John Rim added:“This landmark acquisition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to advancing global healthcare and bolstering our manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. The investment will enable us to deepen our collaboration with federal, state, and local stakeholders to best serve our customers and partners while ensuring a reliable and stable supply of life-saving therapeutics

“This marks an important step forward in our mission to achieve a better life through biomedicines, and we look forward to building on the legacy of this facility as we welcome experienced colleagues to the Samsung Biologics family and continue delivering innovative solutions that make a meaningful impact.”