Gerresheimer, a global supplier to the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, has commenced operations at a new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, China, doubling its production capacity for primary packaging for injectable drugs in the country. The facility, located in the Zhenjiang Economic Development Zone in Jiangsu Province, spans approximately 40,000 square meters and features state-of-the-art, energy-efficient production lines. An additional 33,000 square meters of land is available for future expansion.
The new plant addresses the dynamic market growth in China, particularly in injectable biologics, according to Mehran Nilchian, Global Senior Vice President of Tubular Glass at Gerresheimer. “We are pleased that we can provide our pharma and biotech customers in China and the Asia-Pacific region with the best possible support through our expanded production capacity, excellent quality, and comprehensive service,” Nilchian said.
The plant is equipped with advanced glass forming lines and intelligent production and logistics systems with a high degree of automation. It produces borosilicate glass vials and ampoules in a variety of sizes and designs, adhering to China’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical packaging. Controlled areas include over 2,700 square meters of ISO Class 8 cleanroom space, an ISO Class 7 microbiological laboratory, and over 700 square meters of ISO Class 8 space for silicone coating of ampoules and vials. The plant also maintains an ISO-certified quality and environmental management system.
Sustainability is a key feature of the new facility. Designed to meet China’s “Green Factory” guidelines and LEED Gold certification requirements from the U.S. Green Building Council, the plant incorporates a 2-MWp rooftop photovoltaic system that generates renewable electricity for on-site use. Water conservation measures include systematic collection and recycling of rainwater and condensation from air conditioning systems, while exhaust heat from production is used to heat other areas. These efforts contribute to Gerresheimer’s group-wide sustainability goals.
The start of operations coincides with the 20th anniversary of Gerresheimer’s joint venture with Shuangfeng Glass. The partnership, Gerresheimer Shuangfeng Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd., now operates four tubular glass plants in China: two in Danyang, one in Zhenjiang, and the new facility in Zhenjiang Dagang. With this expansion, Gerresheimer strengthens its position as a leading supplier of primary packaging for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries in China.
The new plant currently employs about 250 workers, with approximately 50 additional jobs expected in the coming years, primarily for skilled workers from the region. Gerresheimer’s investment underscores its commitment to the Chinese market and the growing demand for high-quality packaging solutions for injectable drugs.
For more information, visit Gerresheimer’s website.
