AstraZeneca announced plans to invest $15 billion in its Chinese facilities to expand its manufacturing and R&D capabilities on January 28th, 2026. This investment, which is set to last through 2030, will be used to enhance the company’s cell therapy and radioconjugate capabilities, and will span from drug discovery to manufacturing.

According to a company press release, the company intends to use this capital to build on its existing R&D footprint at two global centers in Beijing and Shanghai. The company will add to its existing manufacturing facilities in WuXi, Taizhou, Qingdao, and Beijing, as well as build unannounced new sites in the country.

“Unlocking opportunities for British businesses across the globe and delivering for working people back home is always the driving force behind my international engagements,” said Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister, in the release. “AstraZeneca’s expansion and leadership in China will help the British manufacturer continue to grow – supporting thousands of UK jobs. The multi-billion pound investment announced today from AstraZeneca, alongside partnerships from some of our country’s leading universities, furthers research and development in the UK which is helping to power our world class life sciences sector.”

“Today’s landmark investment of $15 billion begins an exciting next chapter for AstraZeneca in China, which has become a critical contributor to scientific innovation, advanced manufacturing, and global public health,” said Pascal Soriot, CEO, AstraZeneca, in the release. “By expanding our capabilities in breakthrough treatments like cell therapy and radioconjugates, we will strengthen our contribution to China’s high-quality development and, most importantly, bring next-generation modalities to patients.”