Samsung Biologics, the largest biotechnology company in South Korea, has announced plans to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Rockville, Md.
The announcement is a follow up to meetings held earlier this year between Governor Moore, Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, and Samsung Biologics leadership during the governor’s international trade and investment mission to Japan and South Korea. The mission focused on strengthening global partnerships and advancing economic growth and workforce development across Maryland.
“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,” said Gov. Moore. “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.”
Headquartered in Seoul, Samsung Biologics is a subsidiary of Samsung Technology, and recently acquired GSK’s Rockville manufacturing site for $280 million. The company plans to expand the facility’s drug substance manufacturing capacity and modernize its technology to meet growing global demand for medicines. More than 500 jobs will be retained at the site, with new employment opportunities and additional business planned as Samsung moves into its new Maryland space.
Samsung is one of several companies to invest in Maryland’s booming life sciences sector this year. The announcement follows AstraZeneca’s $2 billion commitment to the state; Nature Cell’s plans for a stem cell manufacturing site with 500 new jobs; and Syngene International’s first U.S. facility in Baltimore.