Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has unveiled plans to invest $4.5 billion in two new manufacturing facilities in Virginia, marking its largest-ever investment. The project is expected to generate approximately 600 direct jobs and an additional 3,000 indirect positions.
The company’s CEO, Pascal Soriot, highlighted the initiative as a strategic move to enhance life sciences innovation and economic growth. “This new facility will create thousands of jobs and strengthen America’s national security and health sovereignty,” he stated.
Virginia Congressman John McGuire (R-VA) praised the investment, calling Albemarle County an ideal location for the facilities. He credited state programs like the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program and the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program for securing the deal.
Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the project’s significance, noting it represents the largest single manufacturing investment in AstraZeneca’s history. “This is a game-changer for American drug manufacturing,” he said.
AstraZeneca also announced plans to expand production of cancer therapies and future weight-loss medications, with an additional $500 million allocated to the project. The company will be eligible for up to $191.3 million in state incentives, contingent on legislative approval.
Local officials hailed the development as a transformative opportunity for Albemarle County, promising high-paying jobs and long-term economic growth.