At a Glance
- Company: Locus Cell (Taiwan); Charles River Laboratories
- Location: Zhubei, Taiwan; global (US HQ)
- Deal value: Non-binding MoU (strategic collaboration)
- Focus area: CGT CMC, testing, manufacturing
- Next steps: Definitive agreements; smart factory buildout
What happened?
Locus Cell Co., Ltd., a Taiwan-based CGT CDMO, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Charles River Laboratories at the APAC Biomanufacturing Leadership Summit 2026 in Singapore. The agreement establishes a framework to explore collaboration in CMC support, analytical testing, technical development and services for advanced therapy developers in Taiwan and Asia-Pacific.
Why does it matter?
Asia’s CGT market grows rapidly but lacks integrated end-to-end solutions; combining Locus Cell’s manufacturing (CAR-T, iPSC, immune cells) with Charles River’s global CRO/biologics testing creates a one-stop regional hub. Taiwan’s supportive regenerative medicine framework attracts international partners seeking PIC/S GMP-compliant capacity.
Who’s behind it?
Locus Cell builds a digital-native smart cell factory in Zhubei; Charles River supports numerous FDA-approved therapies via testing expertise. CEO Sean Chang highlighted strategic alignment for Asia-Pacific CGT developers.
How was it achieved?
MoU covers mutual referrals, technical alignment and service integration under PIC/S GMP standards. Locus incorporates AIoT/digital manufacturing; Charles River provides analytical validation to accelerate developer timelines.
What’s next?
Negotiate definitive agreements; expand Locus factory capacity for clinical/commercial CGT. Target regional developers needing integrated CRO/CDMO solutions.
What are people saying?
Sean Chang: “Strong strategic fit… support advanced therapy developers across region.”