Datwyler considering expansion into China’s health care market

1/28/2018 Updated 11/28/2018

By Shahrzad Pourriahi
European Rubber Journal

ALTDORF, Switzerland—Datwyler is currently evaluating entry into the Chinese health care market via “acquisition or a greenfield approach,” according to a company spokesman.

A particular focus is on components for injectable drugs, which currently are imported into China, Datwyler head corporate communication Guido Unternaehrer said in a written statement.

The Swiss company’s spokesman declined to comment further on the plans for China but pointed out that Datwyler’s health care business is undergoing a phase of global-expansion.

Recent investments include an upgrade to the company’s existing plant in Pune, India, to first line standards in the first half of the year, and the opening of a U.S. plant in Middletown, Del., for which customer validation is ongoing.

According to Unternaehrer, the first line standard is based on advanced cleanroom technology, automated production, camera inspection and special cleaning processes.

Overall, he said, expansion programs are set to increase Datwyler’s “first line” production by 50 percent by 2020. The company’s current total production —including its first line, advanced and essential ranges—stands at 17 billion pieces a year.

Datwyler’s health care segment is part of a sealing solutions division and manufactures medical and pharmaceutical parts, including rubber vial and syringe components.