August 22, 2020
The rise in chronic diseases and the need for secondary devices over the last ten years has driven demand for more advanced and customized packaging solutions. This scenario also called for more stringent manufacturing models catering to the sensitivities of large molecule drugs. Rahul Dev, Global Head of Operations, Datwyler Pharmaceutical Packaging, provided further insights on the supply of biomedical assets consumables, including vaccine to meet global need.
What are the strategic approaches at Datwyler Healthcare to assist APAC region with COVID-19 vaccines and therapies?
As a Swiss-based, leading supplier of elastomer-based components for the primary packaging of parenteral drugs, Datwyler is driven by a dedicated team, commitment to quality, and more than 100 years of experience. From our FirstLine™ facility in Kesurdi, India, we are supplying the most reputable biotech companies, including India-based injectable drug manufacturers, with components such as stoppers and plungers for vials, cartridges, and pre-filled syringes. Our India plant is a cornerstone of our strategic global production footprint to guarantee identical quality standards worldwide, allowing for supply chain flexibility, continuity, and risk mitigation. India, in particular, represents a critical market for pharmaceutical innovation, so it made sense for Datwyler to put down roots in Kesurdi back in 2010 to build a long-term relationship with this region. Beyond supporting our drug manufacturers in India, our facility supplies customers worldwide. In 2018, the Kesurdi facility became Datwyler’s largest plant by volume. As a result, we are expanding with the addition to our Advanced Standard facility in Pune, India, which is a proven and reliable solution for small molecule drugs. This facility is targeted to be ready in 2021.
Can you elaborate on Datwyler's novel manufacturing capabilities to prepare for the uninterrupted ancillary supplies to COVID-19 vaccine
Since the onset of COVID-19, Datwyler has supported several drug manufacturers working toward a vaccine. Our strategy is to manage demand bolstered not just by recent additions to our network of facilities and speeding the scale-up of our U.S. FirstLine facility, but also in balancing of capacity between COVID-19-related demands and supply for other important medicines. As vaccine-related demand ramps up, other needs ramp down, such as components for elective procedures. We redirect that capacity as needed. Our India plant extension coming online soon and we’ll be even better positioned to accommodate the influx in demand due to COVID-19. With the introduction of our newest FirstLine™ facility in the U.S., Datwyler is well-positioned to address the needs of the pandemic.
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