AstraZeneca has announced plans to set up a new cell therapy manufacturing and supply base along with an innovation centre in Shanghai, strengthening its presence in one of its key global markets.

The facility will focus on producing advanced cell therapies, particularly CAR-T treatments, which involve modifying a patient’s own immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells. These therapies will be supplied not only within China but also across other Asian markets.

With this move, AstraZeneca aims to become the first global pharmaceutical company to establish end-to-end cell therapy capabilities in China, covering development, manufacturing, and supply.

The investment forms part of the company’s broader plan to invest around USD 15 billion in China by 2030, spanning research, development, and manufacturing. The company has been steadily expanding its footprint in the country, which is now its second-largest market globally.

In addition to the Shanghai project, AstraZeneca is also planning to build a production and supply facility for radioconjugate drugs in Guangzhou. These therapies are increasingly being used in cancer treatment and are expected to support demand across China and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

The latest announcement reflects AstraZeneca’s continued focus on next-generation treatment platforms such as cell therapy and targeted oncology solutions. The company has been actively investing in these areas through both internal development and strategic partnerships, aiming to strengthen its innovation pipeline.

Despite ongoing investments in other regions, including the United States, AstraZeneca continues to deepen its engagement in China, positioning the country as a major hub for future growth and innovation in biopharmaceuticals.