Contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) Delpham has received $60m from the Canadian Government to modernise its injectable manufacturing facility in Boucherville, Canada.
This follows the company's purchase of the site from Novartis in 2022, which is now responsible for the production of one fifth of the medicines on Canada's critical medicines list.
The ten year agreement between Delpharm and Sandoz will ensure that the site can produce a reliable supply of generic medicines for surgery and intensive care purposes, while also enhancing Canada's healthcare autonomy.
Delpharm's modernisation plan will cost in excess of CAD $200m, and will involve a site expansion and the installation of a novel filling line, as well as the upgrade of existing equipment to ensure it meets Health Canada's new standards.
The expansion will be carried out until 2031, with a vast majority of the equipment being replaced.
“This significant investment is a key step in securing Canada’s industrial biomanufacturing footprint and strengthening our resilience against future health emergencies and supply chain disruptions," notes Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, Anita Anand.
"By increasing our domestic capacity to produce essential sterile injectables, we are ensuring that Canadians are best positioned to have access to the medicines they need. With this $60 million contribution, we are not only supporting innovation in the biomanufacturing sector but also reinforcing Canada’s health security and economic resilience."