This file photo provided by Samsung Biologics shows its No. 4 plant in Songdo, just west of Seoul. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Korea Bizwire) — Samsung Biologics, the biotechnology arm of Samsung Group, said Wednesday it is weighing construction of a sixth manufacturing plant in South Korea and further expansion of its U.S. operations this year, underscoring its push to scale up as global demand for biologic drugs rises.
The potential expansion would support growth across three core areas—production capacity, product portfolio and global manufacturing footprint—Chief Executive John Rim said at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, according to the company.
Samsung Biologics currently operates five production plants in Songdo, west of Seoul, and one facility in Rockville, Md. The U.S. site was acquired last month for 413.6 billion won ($280 million) from GSK, marking the company’s first manufacturing base in the United States.
The acquisition, formerly operated by Human Genome Sciences, is intended to strengthen Samsung Biologics’ global supply network. The company plans additional investments to expand production capacity and technical capabilities at the Rockville facility to meet growing international demand for biologic medicines.
Beyond manufacturing, Samsung Biologics said it aims to secure more contract research, development and manufacturing deals, broadening its service portfolio and reducing reliance on any single business line.
Geographically, the company is placing particular emphasis on the U.S. market, where it plans to expand both production assets and sales operations.
Asked whether the sixth domestic plant could be financed through a corporate bond issuance, Mr. Rim said no decision has been made. He added that the company has sufficient cash on hand and a low debt-to-equity ratio, and will pursue the most cost-effective funding options available.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
