Sanofi, a French pharmaceutical giant, has opened a new USD 800 million manufacturing facility named Modulus in Tuas Biomedical Park, Singapore. This 58,000 square meter plant is set to produce vaccines and other biopharmaceutical products, including enzymes and laboratory-grown antibodies. The facility, which is expected to be fully operational by mid-2026, will create around 200 jobs in various roles such as engineering and data analysis. Notably, Modulus is recognized as the world’s first modular concept facility, designed to accommodate 34 production modules that allow for quick transitions between different products.
The decision to establish Modulus in Singapore highlights the country’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem, which supports innovation and sustainability in the biopharmaceutical sector. Singapore’s comprehensive network of suppliers and technological resources makes it an ideal location for large-scale operations. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung noted that the biopharmaceutical sector in Singapore has seen significant growth, contributing over USD 19 billion to the economy and employing approximately 9,000 personnel. The new facility is expected to enhance Singapore’s capabilities in pandemic preparedness and response, especially in light of recent global health challenges.
Sanofi’s investment aligns with a broader trend of global pharmaceutical companies expanding their operations in Singapore. Recent announcements include significant investments from Novartis and AstraZeneca, reflecting a strong commitment to developing the region’s biopharmaceutical capabilities. As Sanofi joins other major players in enhancing their presence in Singapore, it reinforces the nation’s role as a critical hub for biopharmaceutical innovation and production in Southeast Asia.
(Source: The Straits Times)