Samsung Biologics Acquires GSK Manufacturing Facility, Establishing First U.S. Production Hub

[Han Kwangbeom, Edaily Reporter] Samsung Biologics Acquires GSK Manufacturing Facility, Establishing First U.S. Production Hub

The $280 million deal for the 60,000L HGS plant includes contract succession and full employee retention to bolster global CDMO competitiveness.

Samsung Biologics announced on the 22nd that it has signed a definitive agreement with GlaxoSmithKline(GSK) to acquire the Human Genome Sciences(HGS) biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility located in Rockville, Maryland. This landmark acquisition marks the establishment of Samsung Biologics‘ first manufacturing base in the United States.

The transaction, valued at $280 million (approx. KRW 414.7 billion), will be executed through ’Samsung Biologics America,‘ the company’s U.S. subsidiary. The asset acquisition process is expected to be finalized within the first quarter of 2026.

Strategic Hub in the Maryland Bio-Cluster

The Rockville facility is a large-scale drug substance (DS) plant with a total capacity of 60,000 liters, situated in the heart of Maryland‘s prominent biotech cluster. Comprising two manufacturing buildings, the site is equipped with infrastructure capable of supporting antibody drug production across all stages, from clinical trials to full-scale commercial manufacturing.

By acquiring the site, Samsung Biologics has secured a stable volume of Contract Manufacturing Organization (CMO) business by succeeding existing production contracts. To ensure operational continuity, the company has committed to the full employment succession of over 500 local staff members who possess extensive expertise in plant operations. Samsung Biologics also plans to evaluate further investments, including potential capacity expansions, based on long-term demand.

Strengthening Global Supply Chains

This acquisition allows Samsung Biologics to establish a dual-track production system connecting Songdo, South Korea, and Rockville, USA. This geographical diversification provides global clients with more flexible and stable production options. Furthermore, it strengthens the company’s ability to respond to regional supply chain shifts and enhances its overall Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) competitiveness in North America.

An aerial view of the Human Genome Sciences (HGS) biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Rockville, Maryland, USA. (Photo: Samsung Biologics)

“This acquisition is a strategic decision to advance the global healthcare industry and strengthen manufacturing capabilities within the U.S.,” said John Rim, CEO and President of Samsung Biologics. “In collaboration with federal, state, and local governments, we will enhance the stability of biopharmaceutical supply and continue to elevate the Rockville facility‘s competitiveness through the expertise of its local workforce.”

Regis Simard, President of Global Supply Chain at GSK, added, “Through this transaction, our long-term partner Samsung Biologics will ensure the continued domestic production of critical medicines for U.S. patients. This move also allows GSK to further strengthen the stability and responsiveness of our own global supply chain operations.”