Doha: Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WuXi Biologics (2269.HK), a leading global biologics Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO), to advance cooperation in biologics manufacturing, research and development and biopharmaceutical innovation.
The MoU signing was witnessed by HE Minister of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani, and was signed by HE CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani, and CEO of WuXi Biologics, Dr. Chris Chen.
High-ranking officials from both countries attended the signing ceremony, alongside distinguished industry leaders and guests from both countries.
In a statement Monday, QFZ clarified that this strategic collaboration paves the way for the establishment of WuXi Biologics' first integrated CRDMO center in the Middle East, located within Qatar's free zones.
Under the MoU, the parties will collaborate on a program for research, development, and innovation focused on biologics manufacturing and advanced bioprocessing technologies in Qatar. The partnership aims to strengthen the country's biopharmaceutical ecosystem by attracting key suppliers, enabling clinical trial networks, and establishing world-class centers of excellence.
HE CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani, said: "This partnership strengthens Qatar's position as one of the region's most reliable locations for biopharmaceutical growth. By combining WuXi Biologics' global biologics expertise with Qatar's advanced healthcare ecosystem and unmatched logistics connectivity, we are creating an environment where breakthrough research and high-value manufacturing can thrive.
This collaboration supports our ambition to build a resilient biomedical sciences landscape that contributes to national priorities under the Third National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030".
Beyond the proposed facility, the MoU also outlines opportunities for collaboration with Qatar's academic, medical, and research institutions to advance biopharmaceutical research and develop innovative solutions.
It further includes structured training programs to develop a skilled local biologics workforce, while establishing a framework for long-term cooperation that enhances Qatar's biotechnology resilience and supports WuXi Biologics' presence in the region.
Dr. Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics, commented: "This partnership is a pivotal step for WuXi Biologics. It marks the beginning of our journey to build our presence in the region while extending our global network and capabilities. Qatar's forward-looking vision for the biomedical sciences sector, underpinned by QFZ's integrated ecosystem and reliable connectivity, provides a compelling platform for innovation and advanced manufacturing. We look forward to contributing to this growing landscape while enabling our clients to deliver high-quality, life-saving treatments to patients around the world".
As Qatar and its free zones advance their vision to become a globally trusted hub for biomedical sciences, this collaboration reflects the nation's commitment to attracting cutting-edge biopharmaceutical companies and developing competencies that support both domestic resilience and international healthcare needs. (QNA)
