The strategic move is expected to enhance the availability of borosilicate glass variations to the producers of pharma packaging in India and Asia
FIOLAX amber is used to store light-sensitive medications such as antibiotics or chemotherapeutic agents. (Credit: SCHOTT)
SCHOTT has started production of FIOLAX amber pharmaceutical glass tubing at its facility in Gujarat, India as part of its €75m investment over the last three years to expand its pharma glass production in India.
At the facility, the German glass company produces borosilicate glass tubing material, which is used to manufacture pharmaceutical containers like vials, ampoules, or syringes, to store life-saving drugs.
The expansion strategy aligns with the vision of the Indian government of making India a global pharmaceutical hub, and Germany’s commitment to increasingly invest in India.
The start of a new production of FIOLAX amber pharmaceutical glass tubing will support the producers of drug containment solutions in the region.
SCHOTT said that the strategic move is expected to enhance the availability of borosilicate glass variations to the producers of pharma packaging in India and Asia.
They can also get the glass company’s complete portfolio of pharmaceutical glass tubing produced in India.
According to the German firm, Amber glass is utilised to store light-sensitive medications like antibiotics or chemotherapeutic agents.
Local production is also anticipated to improve availability, planning reliability, and cost efficiency for pharmaceutical converters. Additionally, the expansion is expected to generate 150 additional jobs in India.
SCHOTT Business Unit Tubing executive vice president Dr Patrick Markschläger said: “As part of our strategy to manufacture close to our customers, we are enabling their growth plans by ensuring a sufficient regional supply of high-quality pharmaceutical glass tubing.
“Since breaking ground for construction of the expansion in 2021, the company has achieved its first milestone.”
SCHOTT provides a range of products and services to help store injectable medications safely. Its FIOLAX borosilicate glass portfolio helps companies in pharmaceutical packaging for more than a century.
SCHOTT Glass India managing director Pawan Shukla said: “We have been a reliable partner for the healthcare industry in India for decades and are pleased to expand our local footprint even further.
“We would like to thank the local authorities and our partners for making this project a success.”