Singapore expansion announced for biopharmaceutical testing capacity

Merck is expanding its BioReliance laboratory in Singapore, increasing biopharmaceutical testing capacity across Asia-Pacific with enhanced cell line characterisation, next-generation sequencing and rapid virus detection services

Merck has announced an expansion of its BioReliance laboratory in Singapore, adding capacity for biopharmaceutical testing in the Asia-Pacific region. The development focuses on the analytical infrastructure needed to assess the biological materials used in medicine manufacture, rather than on production capacity alone.

The investment will see an expansion of more than 1,000 square metres at its Singapore site which originally opened in 2018.

“Localizing these BioReliance testing capabilities means our Asia Pacific biopharma customers can accelerate their development timelines, improve operational efficiency, and meet evolving regulatory and sustainability standards,” said Paolo Carli, executive vice president and global head of advanced solutions within Merck’s Life Science business. Carli announced the expansion alongside Goh Wan Yee, senior vice-president of the Singapore Economic Development Board, who highlighted the regional significance of the investment. 

“This investment underscores Merck’s commitment to empowering medicine makers by providing industry-leading analytical and biosafety testing services and technical expertise,” Carli added.

Merck’s expansion includes Cell Line Characterisation, and Good Manufacturing Practice next-generation sequencing. In addition, the company will offer Blazar, its proprietary rapid virus detection technology. The investment reflects the growing importance of specialist service laboratories within biopharmaceutical development, providing access to outsourcing expertise and infrastructure.

Additional regional capacity will also provide practical advantages for customers. Local provision could shorten shipping routes, simplify sample logistics and reduce the risks associated with transporting biological materials over long distances.