GC Biopharma and Merck Life Science said Thursday they signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand cooperation in biopharmaceutical development and GMP manufacturing processes, with a focus on improving supply stability and manufacturing efficiency for key therapies.
Shin Woong, head of operations at GC Biopharma (left), and Kim Young-im, head of Merck Life Science’s Process Solutions business (right), pose for a commemorative photo after signing the strategic MOU. (Courtesy of GC Biopharma)
The signing ceremony was held at Merck Korea’s headquarters in southern Seoul and attended by Kim Young-im, head of Merck Life Science’s Process Solutions business, and Shin Woong, head of operations at GC Biopharma.
Under the agreement, the companies will strengthen cooperation on the supply of raw and subsidiary materials used in biopharmaceutical production while establishing a broader manufacturing support framework.
GC Biopharma said the partnership is expected to help secure stable production systems for major products including plasma-derived therapy Alyglo, which is marketed in the U.S., and Hunter syndrome treatment Hunterase. The company added that the collaboration could improve its ability to respond more flexibly to global demand.
Merck said it will provide support across the production process, ranging from raw material procurement to process technology assistance. The company also said it plans to proactively manage potential supply chain risks by prioritizing the allocation of product batches that meet strict internal quality control standards.
The two companies also plan to operate regular technical and process consultative groups to share manufacturing technologies, improve quality competitiveness and explore joint research and development opportunities.
“This collaboration will serve as an opportunity to strengthen the production and supply foundation for key rare disease treatments and essential medicines,” said Shin Woong, head of operations at GC Biopharma. He added that GC Biopharma aims to minimize manufacturing risks and strengthen global-quality production competitiveness through closer technological cooperation and process optimization.
Kim Young-im, head of Merck Life Science’s Process Solutions business, said the company will support an optimal manufacturing environment to help ensure stable supply of GC Biopharma’s core therapies. She added that Merck would continue efforts to improve the competitiveness and production efficiency of Korea’s pharmaceutical and biotech industry.
Kim Ji-hye
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