Eli Lilly Boosts Global Reach with Netherlands Expansion

Continuing its growth journey after the major investment in Hyderabad, Eli Lilly and Company now plans to build a USD 3 billion manufacturing facility in Katwijk, the Netherlands, within the Leiden Bio Science Park.

The new site will increase Lilly’s capacity to produce oral medicines and strengthen its global supply chain.

The facility will feature advanced manufacturing technologies such as dock-to-dock automation, paperless production, process analytical technology, and spray-dried dispersion, which improves absorption of oral medicines.

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It will support Lilly’s portfolio in cardiometabolic health, neuroscience, oncology, and immunology. The site will also manufacture orforglipron, Lilly’s first oral small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist, expected to be submitted for global regulatory review for obesity by the end of the year.

"With extensive investments already underway in the U.S., our planned expansion in Europe further strengthens our ability to deliver medicines to patients worldwide. Localized manufacturing ensures we can quickly respond to meet regional demand and accelerate distribution within Europe," said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO.

"I'm truly proud that Lilly has chosen the Netherlands, Katwijk and the Leiden Bio Science Park after considering many locations across Europe," said Vincent Karremans, minister of Economic Affairs of the Netherlands.

"At Lilly, we are investing in next-generation manufacturing facilities around the world to ensure our medicines are made and distributed closer to the communities and patients we serve," said Edgardo Hernandez, executive vice president and president of Lilly Manufacturing Operations.

The project will create 500 skilled jobs and about 1,500 construction jobs, giving a boost to the South Holland region. Construction is expected to begin next year, pending government approvals.

With existing manufacturing sites in France, Ireland, Italy, and Spain, Lilly’s new Netherlands facility reinforces its focus on localized and efficient production.