Merck Announces $70 Bn Expansion Across Four US States

In 2025, at least 14 major pharmaceutical companies worldwide announced plans to expand their US manufacturing presence to mitigate supply chain risks amid a challenging tariff environment.

Global drug company, Merck has announced the expansion of its investments in the United States to more than $70 billion, as the drugmaker looks to scale up its manufacturing and research footprint in the country.

Global drugmakers have been increasing their investments in the US to strengthen manufacturing capacity after President Donald Trump urged the industry to make more medicines domestically rather than importing active ingredients or finished products.

In 2025, at least 14 major pharmaceutical companies worldwide announced plans to expand their US manufacturing presence to mitigate supply chain risks and reassure investors amid a challenging tariff environment.

Merck said it has begun construction of a $3 billion pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Elkton, Virginia, confirming that the $70 billion total includes all investments announced so far this year.

The site in Virginia is expected to generate 500 jobs, marking a significant increase from the original plan of a $2 billion investment and 300 jobs, according to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin.

The company also plans to invest an additional $3 billion in biologics and small molecule manufacturing sites and capabilities in the US, along with more than $3.5 billion at its headquarters in Rahway, New Jersey.

Merck had earlier announced a $1 billion investment in a new Delaware plant to manufacture biologics and its cancer drug Keytruda, a move expected to boost domestic production and create over 4,500 jobs. The company also opened a $1 billion facility at its North Carolina site in March.

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