Bora pharmaceuticals) has taken another significant step in its expansion into the U.S. market by announcing on June 20 the acquisition of Emergent BioSolutions’ sterile injectable plant in Camden, Maryland, for $30 million (approximately NT$960 million). Bora stated that this acquisition marks its first sterile injectable facility, significantly enhancing its global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) capabilities and underscoring its strong ambitions in the U.S.
According to Bora, the newly acquired plant spans 86,900 square feet (approximately 2.63 acres) and includes four sterile injectable production lines. These lines support various technical processes needed for experimental trials and commercial production, including lyophilization, vial filling, and pre-filled syringe filling.
Bora highlighted that the facility has passed inspections by the U.S. FDA, enabling the company to mass-produce multiple products for existing clients in the U.S. market. Additionally, the plant has obtained compliance certifications from pharmaceutical regulatory agencies in Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Russia, allowing Bora to expand its global footprint beyond the U.S.
Chairman Sheng Bao-xi emphasized that injectable production capacity has been a strategic market opportunity that Bora has actively sought to complete its CDMO service portfolio. The acquisition of the U.S.-based injectable facility enables Bora to enhance its capabilities in producing sterile active pharmaceutical ingredients and finished injectable drug products, thereby strengthening its competitive edge in the biopharmaceutical contract manufacturing sector.
Over the past decade, Bora has consistently driven operational growth through acquisitions. In 2023, the company reported a revenue of NT$14.2 billion, a 35.3% year-on-year increase, and achieved a record-high EPS of NT$30.2. In the first quarter of 2024, Bora maintained its leading position in biotech profitability with an EPS of NT$7.07.
Earlier this year, Bora acquired the century-old American pharmaceutical company USL. This acquisition was reflected in May’s revenue, leading to a monthly consolidated revenue of NT$1.688 billion, the highest in 15 months, representing a 2.77% monthly increase and a 55.76% annual increase. Industry analysts are optimistic that this acquisition will secure Bora’s continued revenue growth in 2024, potentially positioning the company as the leader in biotech performance.
Analysts noted that the U.S.-China trade war has prompted a significant reshuffling of industries, with many companies seizing opportunities under the U.S. "Biological Safety Act" by establishing manufacturing plants in the U.S. As part of this trend, Bora’s simultaneous acquisitions of USL and Emergent’s Maryland plant in 2024 are expected to enhance its technical processes and complete its production lines. This strategic expansion could set a trend among local pharmaceutical companies and pave the way for potential partnerships and collaborative ventures.
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