ESTEVE CDMO has invested more than US$80 million in the relocation, expansion, and modernisation of its pharmaceutical manufacturing operations in Shaoxing, China, strengthening its global production network and increasing manufacturing capacity in Asia.
Announced on 21 October 2026, the investment provides additional production infrastructure and specialist manufacturing capabilities to support growing demand for pharmaceutical development and manufacturing services.
The new facility forms part of ESTEVE CDMO’s strategy to expand its international operations and strengthen its position as a contract development and manufacturing organisation.
Expanding Pharmaceutical Production Capacity
The Shaoxing site includes three manufacturing workshops with a combined reaction volume of 250 cubic metres.
An additional 150 cubic metres of reaction volume has been reserved for future development, allowing total capacity to potentially exceed 400 cubic metres as production requirements increase.
The expansion introduces greater manufacturing flexibility and specialist capabilities to support customers across pharmaceutical development and production.
ESTEVE CDMO provides services for the development and manufacture of small-molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredients and specialist intermediates.
The company’s global manufacturing network includes operations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
Strengthening International Manufacturing Operations
“This investment is an important step in the sustained growth of ESTEVE CDMO and our global manufacturing platform,” said Joan Petit, President of ESTEVE CDMO.
“Strengthening our presence in China allows us to bring our capabilities closer to customers in Asia while leveraging the expertise of our global network”.
ESTEVE established its first joint venture in China in 2000 and has maintained a manufacturing presence in the country for more than two decades.
The expanded Shaoxing facility will complement the company’s existing international production sites, supporting customers requiring specialist technologies such as spray drying and highly potent API manufacturing.
According to ESTEVE, the investment is intended to improve its ability to respond to increasingly complex pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements.
Incorporating Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
Environmental, health, and safety considerations have been incorporated into the design and operation of the facility.
The new site has achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating, recognising its approach to sustainable building design and environmental performance.
The project has also been selected as a candidate for the BREEAM China Awards.
ESTEVE says the investment supports its wider commitment to responsible manufacturing, operational efficiency, and long-term business development.
The expanded Shaoxing facility strengthens the company’s manufacturing presence in Asia while providing additional capacity and flexibility for international pharmaceutical customers.
