Zydus Lifesciences Ltd. is making a strategic entry into the global biologics Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) market through the acquisition of two biologics manufacturing facilities from Agenus Inc. in California. This $75 million upfront investment, with an additional $50 million contingent on revenue milestones over the next three years, grants Zydus immediate access to state-of-the-art biologics infrastructure and a strong presence in the global biotech hub of California.

The move strengthens Zydus’ position in the biologics value chain, making it a full-spectrum solution provider—from pre-clinical research to clinical development and commercial manufacturing. The acquired facilities, located in Emeryville and Berkeley, will operate under a new independent CDMO business unit staffed by a skilled professional team.

As part of the agreement, Zydus becomes the exclusive manufacturing partner for Agenus’ Phase 3 immuno-oncology products, Botensilimab (BOT) and Balstilimab (BAL), and gains first negotiation rights for future products. This expansion will not only boost Zydus’ global footprint but also contribute to local job creation in California.

Zydus’ entry aligns with the booming biologics CDMO market, projected to reach $84.9 billion by 2034. This move reinforces its long-term vision of advancing innovative therapies and patient-centric healthcare on a global scale.