Eli Lilly's Weight-Loss Drugs Drove Its Stock Higher This Year. A New Plant in Alabama Could Boost Production

Core Insights - Eli Lilly is planning to build a $6 billion facility in Huntsville, Alabama to increase domestic production of weight-loss drugs, including orforglipron, an experimental treatment for obesity and Type 2 diabetes [1][5] - The company aims to submit orforglipron for regulatory approval by the end of the month [1][5] - Eli Lilly is leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance operations at the new facility [2] Industry Context - The decision to expand manufacturing in the U.S. aligns with rising demand for weight-loss medications and reflects pressure from the Trump administration to boost domestic production [3] - Eli Lilly's commitment to reducing drug prices and increasing U.S. manufacturing was solidified during a White House ceremony, resulting in three years of tariff relief and protection from future price mandates [4] - Following the announcement, Eli Lilly's shares increased by approximately 1%, contributing to a nearly 30% rise in 2025, outperforming the S&P 500's 17% gain [4]