Unigene Constructs Pharmaceutical Facilities in China

U.S. pharmaceutical company Unigene has initiated construction on a research, development, and manufacturing facility in Shijiazhuang, China. The project is part of a joint venture with state-owned Chinese pharmaceutical company Shijiazhuang Pharmaceutical Group Corporation, its subsidiary China Pharmaceutical Group, and NBP Pharmaceutical Company. Designed to comply with international good manufacturing practice and good laboratory practice guidelines, the first phase of the project is comprised of a four-story facility slated for completion in 2008. The building will accommodate analytical chemistry, molecular biology, fermentation, purification, formulation, pharmacology, and pilot-scale production. Phase two will include additional manufacturing facilities, with production and validation operations beginning in 2009.