Sanofi Opens Innovation Centre in Chengdu China

French pharmaceutical company Sanofi has officially launched its first China Innovation and Operation Centre in Chengdu, located in southwest Sichuan Province. This move marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy in China.

According to Madeleine Roach, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Operations at Sanofi, the decision to set up the centre in Chengdu reflects the company’s focus on global innovation and long-term growth. She highlighted that Chengdu’s strong position in the biopharmaceutical sector, along with its skilled workforce and growing innovation ecosystem, makes it an ideal location for such an investment.

The newly launched centre will manage a wide range of operations, including research and development (R&D), clinical trials, and supply chain services. Sanofi plans to create more than 600 professional roles at the centre by the end of 2026.

The Chengdu facility is already integrated with Sanofi’s global operations network, connecting with hubs in countries like India, Hungary, Malaysia, Colombia, and Spain. This will help the company improve efficiency and strengthen its international collaboration.

Headquartered in Paris, Sanofi first entered the Chinese market in 1982 by opening a local office. Over the years, it has expanded its presence with multiple production and R&D centres across China, including major hubs in Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Suzhou.

In 2025, the company also started building a new insulin active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing facility in Beijing, with a total investment of 1 billion euros (around $1.16 billion), further strengthening its commitment to the Chinese healthcare market.