Key Takeaways:
- AbbVie is investing more than $10 billion in U.S. manufacturing, with a focus on immunology, oncology, and neuroscience medicines.
- A new active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) plant in North Chicago, Illinois, will boost U.S. manufacturing capacity.
- The facility will bring some production capabilities from Europe and Asia to the U.S., aligning with recent U.S. policy changes that offer tariff exemptions for domestic production.
- The plant is expected to be fully operational by 2027, supporting AbbVie’s long-term goals for innovation and patient care.
AbbVie Breaks Ground on New Manufacturing Facility in North Chicago
AbbVie, a global biopharmaceutical leader, has officially broken ground on a new state-of-the-art active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing facility in North Chicago, Illinois. This new plant represents a critical step in AbbVie’s strategy to expand its U.S. manufacturing capabilities and support its growing portfolio of immunology, oncology, and neuroscience therapies.
With a focus on increasing production capacity, the new facility will help AbbVie meet the rising demand for these advanced treatments. Expected to be fully operational by 2027, the site will play a vital role in the company’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for patients both in the U.S. and around the world.
Expanding U.S. Manufacturing to Meet Global Demand
AbbVie’s decision to build this facility comes as part of a larger $10 billion investment plan to enhance the company’s U.S. manufacturing footprint. Over the next decade, AbbVie plans to build multiple new plants, increasing the domestic production of crucial pharmaceutical products. The North Chicago plant will shift some API manufacturing from Europe and Asia to the U.S., further strengthening its domestic operations and reducing reliance on overseas production.
“This groundbreaking represents AbbVie’s ongoing efforts to enhance U.S.-based biopharmaceutical manufacturing,” said Azita Saleki-Gerhardt, Ph.D., Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at AbbVie. “This new facility will be instrumental in advancing our ability to produce innovative medicines for patients who rely on them worldwide.”
Strategic Timing Amidst Changing Tariff Policies
AbbVie’s timing aligns strategically with recent policy changes in the U.S. regarding pharmaceutical tariffs. As of October 2025, U.S. tariffs on branded and patented drug imports will increase to 100%, though companies with active U.S.-based manufacturing operations will be exempt. This policy shift aims to encourage pharmaceutical companies to build more domestic manufacturing capacity. AbbVie’s decision to start construction in late September places it in an advantageous position to avoid these upcoming tariffs on its products.
In addition to the operational benefits, the project is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in Illinois, supporting the local economy and furthering AbbVie’s investment in U.S. manufacturing. The new facility will contribute to AbbVie’s existing workforce of more than 28,000 employees across the country, which already spans all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
A Strong Commitment to Illinois and Innovation
AbbVie has long been committed to its Illinois roots, with its global headquarters located in North Chicago. The company’s $195 million investment in the new API facility underscores its dedication to strengthening the biopharmaceutical ecosystem in the state.
Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed support for AbbVie’s expansion, highlighting the state’s world-class infrastructure and talented workforce as key factors in attracting high-level manufacturing projects. “AbbVie’s expansion is a testament to Illinois’ leadership in pharmaceutical innovation and its robust biomanufacturing ecosystem,” said Governor Pritzker.
This new facility is expected to accelerate AbbVie’s production capabilities, enabling the company to deliver next-generation medicines that significantly impact patient lives while solidifying its role as a leader in global healthcare.
