The facility in Nanchang, which has been in operation for nearly 20 years, produces poultry vaccines for the domestic Chinese market. With the $70 million expansion, the production capacity of the Nanchang plant will double, according to the company.

Phase 1 of the expansion will add nearly 30,000 square meters of floor area, according to Merial.

“Merial has been operating with our partners in China for nearly 20 years,” said José Barella, executive chairman of Merial. “During that time, we have been proud to have joined our Chinese partner organizations in enhancing the quantity and quality of poultry protein to meet the ever-increasing demand by consumers here. Now, with the establishment of this new state-of-the art facility, we have the ability to further apply the latest in modern avian vaccine technology and further contribute to the country’s production of poultry protein, and help feed a vibrant and modern China. We hope that this milestone in our growing relationship with China is a symbol of our commitment to this market, and an indication of our desire to further expand our operations in the future.”