Hillgene chooses Wallonia for its European cell therapy operations
Chinese company Hillgene, specialised in the production of cell therapies, has chosen the city of Liège to establish its European branch. This strategic decision reflects the continued growth of Wallonia’s biotechnology ecosystem, which is attracting major global biopharmaceutical players.
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Hillgene’s arrival in Liège represents a significant addition to the local biotech landscape. The company has selected facilities within the GiGA campus, integrated with the university hospital, as its European base. This strategic location will enable Hillgene to benefit from a highly innovative environment while building strong ties with the region’s academic and scientific communities.
As a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), Hillgene has already successfully delivered more than 30 cell therapy projects worldwide and supported eight investigational drug applications in China. This solid track record positions the company as a partner of choice for laboratories and biopharmaceutical firms seeking to develop and manufacture innovative cell therapies.
A strategic partnership with Wallonia
The decision to establish its European branch in Liège stems from a strategic partnership with Wallonia, facilitated by the Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX) and Bridge to Health (B2H), the Liège life sciences umbrella organisation. This collaboration highlights Wallonia’s growing appeal for international biotech companies, drawn by its strong life sciences ecosystem and collaboration opportunities with local partners.
Hillgene plans a gradual start at GiGA, relying on the Cell and Gene Therapy Laboratory (LTCG) to produce for clients, including Chinese companies wishing to conduct clinical trials in Europe. This approach allows Hillgene to integrate into the local research ecosystem while leveraging the LTCG’s GMP-compliant pharmaceutical manufacturing infrastructure.
Hillgene’s establishment in Liège will strengthen Wallonia’s cell and gene therapy biomanufacturing cluster and reinforce the region’s position on the European and global stage. The move is expected to further energise the local biotech ecosystem and create new opportunities for collaboration and development in advanced therapies.
Hillgene’s arrival in Wallonia marks another important milestone in the region’s biotech development, confirming its growing attractiveness for international biopharmaceutical companies and fostering innovation in the life sciences sector.
