Australia’s CSL outlines USD 1.5B plan to boost US plasma therapy manufacturing capacity

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Stock image. Image credit: motorolka/stock.adobe.com

Australian biotech firm CSL has announced plans to invest approximately USD 1.5 billion in the United States over the next five years, with the company stating the move is aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity for plasma-derived therapies. 

In its media release, the ASX-listed company said the planned investment would support expanded production of immunoglobulin and other plasma-based medicines, while creating hundreds of jobs and contributing to the resilience of the US medicine supply chain.

According to CSL, the United States remains a central hub for plasma collection and manufacturing. “The US is the world’s leading source for plasma, the main component of plasma-derived therapies,” CSL Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Paul McKenzie said. 

“These important medicines are often the most effective or only therapies available for many rare or serious diseases. By expanding our onshore production capacity in the U.S., we are deepening our commitment to patient care, creating high-quality jobs and driving innovation in the U.S.”

The company reported that the announcement builds on more than USD 3 billion invested in its US operations since 2018, which CSL said resulted in the creation of over 6,500 jobs and contributed to the growth of its nearly 19,000-strong US workforce. 

CSL stated that this figure represents about 65 per cent of its global headcount and underscores the scale of its manufacturing operations across 44 states.

In outlining the broader impact of its US presence, CSL said it provides “meaningful career opportunities for Americans nationwide,” from manufacturing roles to scientific and technical positions. 

The company also noted that its plasma collection centres serve as an entry point for many workers beginning their careers in the healthcare sector.

CSL stated that the expanded investment is intended to help meet long-term demand for immunoglobulin therapies and support a stable supply of plasma-derived medicines for patients in the US and internationally.

CSL said the proposed investments are subject to approval by its Board of Directors.

The content of this article is based on information supplied by CSL Ltd. For more information, please refer to the official company announcement and communications from CSL. Please consult a licensed and/or registered professional in this area before making any decisions based on the content of this article.