(Yicai Global) Nov. 16 -- Merck China plans to add a life sciences section to its upstream technology research and development center in Shanghai, aiming to reduce customer response times by localizing R&D centers and accelerating sample testing for production.

Next year, Merck China will expand the center in Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park to 1,000 square meters with more than 20 scientists and engineers, a representative of the US pharma giant's China unit told Yicai Global. It will be the company's largest such facility in the region, according to Benoit Opsomer, vice president and head of Merck's BioProcessing in the Asia-Pacific.

The 350-year-old firm has been increasing investments in life sciences in recent years, hoping to transform into an innovative technology company. China is regarded as a top priority due to its position as one of the top five markets in the globally. Merck has invested EUR250 million in China, Opsomer said.

Merck will also set up a complete media service system combining the hub with its Nantong Life Science Center to be built next year. Over two years, the firm has invested EUR80 million (USD90.5 million) in Nantong Life Science Center as well as in its first Asian end-to-end bioprocess development center in Shanghai, and a one-time technology production base in Wuxi, Jiangsu province.

Merck is the first multinational company to introduce medium development and non-good manufacturing practice pilot production capabilities in China.

Editor: William Clegg