Eli Lilly to build $6.5bn orforglipron production site in Texas

Core Insights - Eli Lilly is investing $6.5 billion to build an active pharmaceutical product (API) facility in Texas, following a $5 billion facility announcement in Virginia as part of a $27 billion US manufacturing initiative [1][5][7] - The Texas facility will focus on producing orforglipron, a potential treatment for obesity, with expected global sales exceeding $14 billion by 2031 [2][4] Investment and Production Strategy - The new Houston site will enhance the manufacturing capabilities for orforglipron, aiming for US approval by the end of 2025 for obesity and in 2026 for type 2 diabetes [2][7] - The facility will create 615 jobs and is expected to start production within five years, contributing to the domestic production of various small molecule drugs [4][7] Technological Integration - The Texas facility will utilize advanced digital technologies, including machine learning, AI, and data analytics, to optimize operations and supply chain efficiency [5] - Eli Lilly plans to collaborate with local universities and invest in educational initiatives in Texas as part of its technology integration strategy [5] Broader Industry Context - The establishment of the Texas and Virginia sites is part of a larger strategy to increase domestic pharmaceutical production, responding to industry pressures for onshoring [7] - Since 2020, Eli Lilly has committed over $50 billion to expand its US manufacturing capabilities, with plans to announce two additional locations later this year [7]