Morison PLC, the largest oral solid dosage pharmaceutical manufacturer in Sri Lanka and a subsidiary of Hemas Holdings PLC, ceremonially opened their new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant and research & development facility in the presence of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, yesterday.
Several Cabinet Ministers and dignitaries also graced the event as special guests, including Minister of Health, Pavithra Wanniarachchi; State Minister of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals, Prof. Channa Jayasumana; State Minister of Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation, Minister Dr. Seetha Arambepola and Secretary to Minister of Trade, Dr. Sunil Navaratne.
Located within the Sri Lanka Nano Technology Park in Pitipana, Homagama this is the second manufacturing facility of Morison PLC. The factory is ready to commence validation batches and is expected to start commercial production early next year, supporting the government’s objective to manufacture essential medicines locally.
Morison is committed to increase access of high quality, affordable medicines to all Sri Lankans and enables it with the new plant, with a capacity to supply over 20 percent of Sri Lanka’s tablet needs.
A pioneer in the local manufacture of pharmaceuticals, Morison’s new facility with an investment of US$ 18.5 million reaches a major milestone in Sri Lanka, being the first European Union-Good Manufacturing Practice (EU-GMP) compliant oral solid dosage manufacturing plant in Sri Lanka.
Speaking at the ceremony, Murtaza Esufally, Managing Director, Morison PLC said, “The launch of the new state-of the-art manufacturing facility marks a new era for Morison PLC, continuing our 80-year long mission to offer the highest quality products at affordable prices. This investment is supported through the guaranteed buy-back agreements that will help us to build economies of scale and be more competitive in global markets. “Continued government support will enable us create a stronger footprint in exports and begin contract manufacture partnerships with global pharma companies, helping Sri Lanka earn valuable foreign exchange as we look to the future.”