Gerresheimer, an innovative system and solution provider for the pharma, biotech, and cosmetic industries, has started operations at a new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, China, for the production of glass primary pharmaceutical packaging. After approximately four years of construction, a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient building covering around 40,000 m2 (60 mu) has been completed in the Zhenjiang Economic Development Zone in Jiangsu Province. The facility fully meets the stringent regulatory requirements of the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, with an additional 33,000 m2 (50 mu) of land available for future expansion.
The new plant doubles Gerresheimer's production capacity for primary packaging for injectable pharmaceuticals in China. Currently, the site produces pharmaceutical vials and ampoules primarily for the Chinese market with a workforce of about 250 employees, and approximately 50 new jobs are expected to be created in the coming years. This expansion underscores the company's commitment to the dynamic market growth in China, particularly in the field of injectable biologics. Mehran Nilchian, Global Senior Vice President of Tubular Glass at Gerresheimer, stated, "With our new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, we are responding to the dynamic market growth in China, particularly in the field of injectable biologics."
The plant is equipped with state-of-the-art glass forming lines and intelligent production and logistics systems featuring a high degree of automation. The borosilicate glass vials and ampoules are produced in a wide range of sizes and designs in accordance with China's Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for pharmaceutical packaging. Controlled areas include over 2,700 m2 of ISO Class 8 cleanroom space, an ISO Class 7 microbiological laboratory, and over 700 m2 of ISO Class 8 space for silicone coating. The plant also has a comprehensive ISO-certified quality and environmental management system.
Sustainability is a key feature of the new facility, designed and built in accordance with China's "Green Factory" guidelines and the LEED Gold certification requirements of the U.S. Green Building Council. A 2-MWp rooftop photovoltaic system generates sustainable electricity consumed directly on-site. Water is systematically collected and recycled, including rainwater and condensation from air conditioning systems. Exhaust heat generated during production is used to heat other areas. These energy and resource efficiency measures contribute positively to the Gerresheimer Group's ambitious sustainability goals.
The start of operations also marks the 20th anniversary of the successful partnership between Gerresheimer and Chinese company Shuangfeng Glass. The joint venture, Gerresheimer Shuangfeng Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd., now operates a total of four Tubular Glass plants in China: two in Danyang, one in Zhenjiang, and the new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang. With this expanded production capacity, Gerresheimer positions itself as one of the leading suppliers of primary packaging for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries in China.
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