Gerresheimer, a global partner to the pharma, biotech, and cosmetic industries, has begun operations at a new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, China, marking a significant expansion in its tubular glass production capacity. The facility, located in the Zhenjiang Economic Development Zone in Jiangsu Province, covers approximately 40,000 m2 and was built over four years, adhering to stringent regulatory standards for the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.
The new plant doubles Gerresheimer's production capacity for primary packaging for injectable pharmaceuticals in China, including vials and ampoules primarily for the Chinese market. The company currently employs about 250 workers at the site, with an additional 50 jobs expected in the coming years. This expansion is part of Gerresheimer's ongoing 20-year joint venture with Shuangfeng Glass, which now operates four tubular glass plants in China.
“With our new plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, we are responding to the dynamic market growth in China, particularly in the field of injectable biologics,” said 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.”
The plant features state-of-the-art glass forming lines and intelligent production and logistics systems with a high degree of automation. Borosilicate glass vials and ampoules are produced in various sizes and designs in compliance 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 facility also has an ISO-certified quality and environmental management system.
Sustainability is a key focus of the new plant, which was designed and built according to China's “Green Factory” guidelines and LEED Gold certification requirements. A 2-MWp rooftop photovoltaic system generates sustainable electricity for on-site consumption. Water is systematically collected and recycled, including rainwater and condensation from air conditioning systems, while exhaust heat from production is used to heat other areas. These measures contribute to Gerresheimer's ambitious sustainability goals.
The start of operations also celebrates the 20th anniversary of the joint venture between Gerresheimer and Shuangfeng Glass. The joint venture, Gerresheimer Shuangfeng Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd., now operates four plants in China, positioning Gerresheimer as a leading supplier of primary packaging for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries in the region.
