J&J plans a $1 billion investment in a novel Pennsylvania site as the U.S. seeks to grow its production capabilities. Johnson & Johnson announced on Wednesday its intention to allocate over $1 billion towards establishing a fresh cell therapy production center in Pennsylvania. This venture aligns with a wider strategy, revealed the prior year, aiming to augment U.S. manufacturing strength amidst tariff concerns from President Donald Trump.
Back in March, the firm shared its intentions to commit more than $55 billion by the start of 2029 to develop production and research hubs across the United States, including a separate plant in Wilson, North Carolina. In October, the U.S. government enacted a 100% tariff on name-brand medications, while stating it would not apply to producers already underway with plant construction within the nation.
Major pharmaceutical players, such as Eli Lilly and AstraZeneca, have also pledged to dedicate billions of dollars towards expanding their footprint within the U.S. in response to Trump’s initiatives, inclusive of tariff measures.
J&J stated that the forthcoming facility in Montgomery County is projected to generate over 4,000 jobs during its building phase and establish 500 enduring biomanufacturing roles upon reaching operational status. The corporation did not specify a timeframe for the facility’s launch.
The site will bolster the output of medications designed to address oncological, immunological, and neurological ailments.
J&J currently holds approval for one cell therapy — Carvykti — intended for adult patients diagnosed with particular forms of multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting the plasma cells within the bone marrow.
The enterprise already possesses 10 locations within Pennsylvania, estimated to contribute an approximate annual economic effect of $10 billion.
This past August, the pharmaceutical giant also unveiled strategies to invest $2 billion in a production hub located in Holly Springs, North Carolina, as part of a decade-long arrangement with Fujifilm Biotechnologies, a Tokyo-based contract drug innovator.
Source: Reuters