Within a short span of 2 years, 4 major biomedical companies announced their commercial-scale biologics manufacturing investments in Singapore. These investments include, GlaxoSmithKline’s Biologics’ vaccine plant, Lonza’s two mammalian cell culture facilities, Novartis cell culture plant and Genentech microbial facility.

So what made these companies come to Singapore?

Firstly, it was due to the country’s heavy investments to upgrade its pool of skilled manpower in the area of biologics manufacturing. This includes providing relevant courses and modules in tertiary institutes, based on industry recommendations and funding practical training programs to provide hands-on exposure in biologics facilities overseas. For example, EDB’s Strategic Training and Attachment program has sent over 250 trainees to its training partners’ facilities worldwide.

Secondly, over the past 10 years, Singapore has built up huge capabilities in the area of bioprocess research which ensures the long-term sustainability of Biologics Manufacturing. The Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), under A*STAR, is well positioned to help companies enhance and improve their biologics manufacturing processes in Singapore. Having a strategic research partner in Singapore has encouraged the set-up of major plants here. Some have even set-up their research centers here due to the encouraging government support!

Finally, Singapore provides strong engineering support for these biologics manufacturing investments. More than 50% of the top 40 global engineering design companies have established sizeable operations in Singapore. These companies are able to provide specific technical expertise and extensive experience in the areas of biotechnology and manufacturing.

Singapore’s initiative to develop its manpower, capability and engineering support has managed to attract heavy investments in the area of Biologics. It is set to create more employment opportunities and establish Biologics as a key sector of the economy.

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Disclaimer: GlaxoSmithKline, Lonza, Novartis and Genentech are sponsors of BioBiz 2009.

Photo: Flickr/Time Never Waits.(Singapore)