Singapore to grow into a global hub of biotechnology

10x Genomics just built its first production and commercial location outside of the United States in Singapore. It also includes automated production suites for reagent manufacturing.

FREMONT, CA: In Singapore, 10x Genomics has opened its first production and commercial facility outside of the United States. There are also automated production suites for reagent manufacturing, as well as lab space for training. The site is also meant to serve as a commercial hub in the APAC area, with capabilities for in-region sales, marketing, and customer service.

According to the Singapore Economic Development Board's reports, Singapore has approximately 450 biotech and medical technology companies, accounting for 5% of the country's GDP. During 2000 and 2021, the Singaporean government's investment resulted in annual growth of 6% in pharma manufacturing locations. Furthermore, Singapore employs five times as many biomedical researchers per capita as the United States. As a result, organizations like 10x Genomics are looking to set up business in the locality. 

 The company's spokesman was unable to specify the specific amount spent on the facility but said it was part of the company's ongoing commitment to expand manufacturing and operations. 10x Genomics is trying to increase its global reach particularly in the Asia-Pacific area, as it is one of the most rapidly growing healthcare markets in the world. In the first half of 2021, the region accounted for 25 percent of the business's global sales. According to 10x Genomics' expansion in the country, the life sciences sector is an important part of the healthcare economy and seems to have a promising future. The EDB is committed to promoting the sector's innovation and manufacturing operations, which is likely to result in productive employment and business possibilities for Singaporeans. 10x Genomics isn't the only startup in the country wanting to invest in manufacturing new devices. In Singapore, Lonza expanded its mammalian development services by building a new 1800-square-meter facility and 125 new personnel.