AstraZeneca rejoins PhRMA amid US$ 3.5B U.S. expansion plans​

USA – AstraZeneca has rejoined the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) after a two-year hiatus, signaling a renewed commitment to U.S. pharmaceutical policy and innovation.

The British drugmaker had previously exited the influential lobbying group in May 2023 to explore alternative advocacy strategies at both state and federal levels. ​

The company’s return coincides with a significant US$ 3.5 billion investment aimed at expanding its research and manufacturing footprint across the United States by the end of 2026.

This expansion includes the development of a state-of-the-art R&D center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a next-generation biologics manufacturing facility in Maryland, specialty manufacturing in Texas, and enhanced cell therapy manufacturing capacities on both the East and West Coasts.

The initiative is expected to create over 1,000 high-skilled jobs, contributing to the growth of the U.S. economy. ​

CEO Pascal Soriot emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S. market, stating, “Our multibillion-dollar investment reflects the attractiveness of the business environment together with the quality of talent and innovation capabilities here in the United States.”

He added that AstraZeneca is committed to collaborating with PhRMA and policymakers to ensure the U.S. remains a global leader in biomedical innovation and that medicines are affordable for everyone who needs them. ​

The decision to rejoin PhRMA comes at a time when pharmaceutical companies are navigating potential changes in U.S. trade policies.

President Donald Trump has indicated intentions to impose significant tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, urging companies to increase domestic production.

AstraZeneca’s renewed engagement with PhRMA suggests a strategic move to influence policy decisions that could impact the industry’s future.

PhRMA President and CEO Stephen Ubl welcomed AstraZeneca back, noting the company’s long-standing commitment to addressing significant healthcare challenges.

AstraZeneca’s reentry into the organization aligns with its broader goal of achieving US$ 80 billion in total revenue by 2030, as outlined in its Ambition 2030 strategy.

The U.S. market currently represents 44% of the company’s total revenue, underscoring its critical role in AstraZeneca’s growth plans. ​