Eli Lilly and Company is moving to position India as a strategic global manufacturing and export hub, supported by strong demand for its blockbuster diabetes and obesity therapy Mounjaro. A senior executive said the company is advancing plans to integrate India more deeply into its worldwide supply chain through contract manufacturing partnerships.

Since its India launch, Mounjaro has recorded rapid uptake, becoming one of Lilly’s highest-value products in the market. The strong commercial performance is reinforcing the company’s decision to leverage India’s established pharmaceutical manufacturing ecosystem to support global supply requirements.

While Lilly does not currently operate its own production facility in India, it intends to collaborate with local manufacturers to produce medicines for export markets. This strategy aligns with broader investments aimed at strengthening supply resilience, expanding production flexibility, and meeting growing global demand for metabolic therapies.

The company is also preparing to expand its India portfolio with additional innovative therapies, including its Alzheimer’s candidate donanemab and investigational oral obesity therapy orforglipron, subject to regulatory approvals. Distribution partnerships, including collaborations with firms such as Cipla, are expected to support wider reach across urban and semi-urban markets.

India’s fast-growing obesity and metabolic treatment segment is attracting intense competition. Global players like Novo Nordisk — marketer of Wegovy — are also expanding their presence, while domestic manufacturers are preparing for future generic opportunities. Despite the competitive landscape, Lilly views India as a critical pillar in its long-term manufacturing and export strategy.