Recent developments
Capacity expansions
CDMO-oriented capacity expanded in the U.S. and Europe. Merck began the construction of a $3 billion pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Elkton, Virginia. Terumo completed the acquisition of a Drug Product Plant and Quality Control Laboratory in Leverkusen. A transatlantic network formed via BBG Advanced Therapies and CELLforCURE to streamline ATMP development and scale-up.
Delivery technologies
Evonik introduced EUDRACAP colon functional capsules under GMP for ileo-colonic targeting, with the platform recognized by the CPHI Excellence in Pharma Award. Capabilities broadened with the Noblyst F catalyst portfolio for flow and the ultra‑pure excipient MaxiPure Polysorbate 80 for injectables. Evonik and Ethris partnered on a novel lipid nanoparticle platform for nucleic acid delivery.
RNA and hubs
Mitsubishi Gas Chemical and Cirena moved to an exclusive long-chain RNA distribution pact in Japan, highlighting demand for chemically synthesized RNAs up to 300 bases. Eli Lilly expanded its innovation footprint with a new Lilly Gateway Labs site in Philadelphia, supporting early biotech development.
Quality and ESG
WuXi Biologics strengthened credentials with GMP certification from Türkiye’s TITCK for three Wuxi facilities. The company sustained ESG recognition via an MSCI AAA ESG rating and inclusion in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index, and received Frost & Sullivan’s Global Customer Value Leadership Recognition.
Financial context
Merck reported total worldwide sales of $17.3 billion and advanced manufacturing and regulatory milestones, including KEYTRUDA QLEX for subcutaneous use. WACKER reported sales of €1.41 billion, citing lower volumes and utilization, and revised its 2025 outlook amid macro uncertainty.