Indian pharma CRDMOs poised for global dominance

UNDERPINNED by rapid acceleration and greater global recognition, Indian pharma contract research, development and manufacturing organizations (CRDMOs) are entering a transformative phase.

- Nandita Vijayasimha, Bengaluru

Backed by a vast pool of scientific talent, a robust and mature life sciences ecosystem, and a strategic shift toward innovation-led growth, the sector is poised for multiyear expansion.

The country's CRDMOs are no longer just cost-effective partners but they are becoming integral players in global drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. As multinational pharmaceutical and biotech companies are increasingly seeking agile, high-quality outsourcing partners, India stands out as a destination of choice, offering scale, speed, and scientific excellence.

The recently imposed US tariffs apply primarily to branded and patented pharmaceutical products, not to generics. As a result, Indian contract research and manufacturing services (CRAMS) industry remains largely unaffected. Moreover, the high cost of manufacturing and research in the US continues to reinforce the competitive advantage of Indian CRAMS providers, who offer high-quality, cost-efficient solutions at scale. This dynamic further strengthens India's position as a preferred global outsourcing hub, stated Suresh Khanna, past chairman, KDPMA and partner, Dossier Solutions & Services LLP.

Added to this is the well trained and skilled manpower availability, lower costs of technical manpower, high level of capability in R&D activity, experienced manpower available for clinical trial study management, added Khanna. Also, Khanna noted that senior technical persons are available with global working experience and having knowledge in pharma practices in leading nations both for API and formulations.

Key trends shaping CRDMO industry

Key trends shaping the CRDMO industry include growing outsourcing by global innovators, a push for faster time-to-market, continuous technological innovation, and an increased focus on sustainability and compliance with evolving regulatory standards.