Gerresheimer doubles China pharmaceutical glass packaging capacity with new Zhenjiang plant

CHINA – Gerresheimer has commenced operations at a new US$75 million plant in Zhenjiang Dagang, China, doubling its production capacity for glass primary packaging for injectable medicines while creating 300 jobs and setting LEED Gold sustainability standards.

The 40,000m² facility, located in the Zhenjiang Economic Development Zone in Jiangsu Province, was completed after four years of construction and features state-of-the-art glass forming lines along with automated production and logistics systems. 

An additional 33,000m² of land has been set aside for possible future development, including plans for Gerresheimer’s China headquarters and integration of other pharmaceutical packaging businesses. 

The plant currently produces borosilicate glass vials and ampoules primarily for the Chinese market. 

The facility also includes integrated cleanroom areas of ISO class 7 and 8 for the production of high-quality primary packaging that meets the stringent requirements of the pharmaceutical industry. 

The facility is equipped with 100 percent automated inspection systems to ensure the highest quality standards for the pharmaceutical industry.

20-Year Joint Venture with Shuangfeng Glass and Green Factory Standards

The opening of the Zhenjiang Dagang site marks the 20-year partnership between Gerresheimer and Chinese company Shuangfeng Glass. 

Through their joint venture, Gerresheimer Shuangfeng Pharmaceutical Glass, the two companies now operate four Tubular Glass plants in China: two in Danyang, one in Zhenjiang, and the new facility in Zhenjiang Dagang. 

The new plant was designed and built in accordance with China’s “Green Factory” guidelines and LEED Gold certification requirements, featuring a 2-MWp rooftop photovoltaic system that generates sustainable electricity consumed on-site. 

Water is systematically collected and recycled, including rainwater and condensation from air conditioning systems, while exhaust heat generated during production is used to heat other areas. 

These sustainability measures align with China’s national “Dual Carbon” goals and support customers in achieving their own sustainability targets.

Capacity Expansion to Serve Dynamic Biologics Market

Gerresheimer currently employs around 250 people at the site, with approximately 50 additional roles expected over the next few years. 

The plant manufactures glass vials and ampoules in multiple sizes and formats, in line with China’s Good Manufacturing Practices for pharmaceutical packaging. 

Mehran Nilchian, Global Senior Vice President of Tubular Glass at Gerresheimer, stated that the new plant responds to dynamic market growth in China, particularly in the field of injectable biologics. 

The expanded production capacity provides support to pharma and biotech customers in China and the Asia-Pacific region.

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