India’s pharmaceutical sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a primarily generics-driven industry into one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for CDMO partnerships. Today, global innovators, biotech startups, and large pharmaceutical companies rely heavily on India’s manufacturing ecosystem, making the country a preferred centre for pharma CDMO and CDMO pharmaceutical solutions. But how did India emerge as this global powerhouse?
The journey began with strong policy reforms, the rise of GMP-aligned facilities, and a rapidly expanding pool of scientific talent. Combined with cost efficiency, advanced technology adoption, and a deep understanding of global regulatory landscapes, India began to offer unmatched value. As the sector matured, the emphasis shifted from simply contract manufacturing to full-spectrum CDMO services—including formulation development, technical transfer, scale-up, commercial manufacturing, packaging, and global supply.
One of the core reasons behind India’s rise is its ability to provide end-to-end CDMO solutions at scale. Companies here have adopted international quality systems, automation, and digitalisation faster than ever. This has enabled global clients to trust India for high-complexity dosage forms, sterile injectables, biosimilars, nutraceuticals, and next-generation therapies.
Among the companies driving this transformation, Akums stands out as one of the largest contributors to India’s CDMO capacity expansion. With its unmatched manufacturing scale, multi-location plants, and diverse dosage capabilities—from oral solids and liquids to injectables, ointments, nutraceuticals, and novel delivery systems—Akums represents the strength and maturity of Indian CDMO pharma growth.
Akums owns a vast production ecosystem backed by a 16,000+ workforce, several regulatory approvals (including WHO-GMP, EU certifications, and PIC/S-compliant processes), and a strong export footprint across multiple continents. Its ability to commercialise 4,000+ formulations positions it among the most innovative and reliable CDMOs in the region.
As global companies seek speed, flexibility, and quality, India’s CDMO ecosystem continues to strengthen its value proposition. The country offers an ideal blend of cost competitiveness, quality excellence, formulation innovation, and supply chain reliability. Moreover, with increasing investments in R&D, AI-driven manufacturing, digital QMS systems, and sustainable manufacturing practices, India is now transitioning from being a manufacturing hub to an innovation-led CDMO leader.
The next phase of growth will be defined by specialty dosage forms, complex generics, and global regulatory integration. India is already well-positioned to lead this shift—thanks to its progressive companies, expanding capabilities, and robust compliance culture.
In summary, India’s evolution into a global CDMO hub is the result of decades of strategic investment, scientific advancement, and an unwavering commitment to quality. And as companies like Akums continue to scale new milestones in production excellence, dosage diversification, and technical capability, India’s leadership in the global CDMO pharmaceutical landscape is set to grow even stronger.
