A Visit to 中外製薬工業株式会社 Chugai’s Award-Winning Tokyo Facility: A Benchmark in Social Impact and Excellence
A Message from the President and CEO, ISPE - In late May, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting 中外製薬工業株式会社 Chugai Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Co., Ltd.’s UK4 biological drug substance manufacturing facility in Tokyo, Japan—Category Winner of the 2024 ISPE Facility of the Year Awards (FOYA) in Social Impact. This visit was not only inspiring but also a powerful reminder of the innovation and dedication that define the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
From the moment we stepped into the facility, the attention to detail and quality of the finishes was immediately apparent. Every corridor, cleanroom, and workspace reflected a commitment to excellence. But what truly stood out was the professionalism and passion of the Chugai team—from the technical experts who guided us through the facility’s sustainable systems, to the general manager whose leadership was evident in every interaction.
The Chugai team was visibly proud and excited to host our group of industry experts and ISPE leaders. Their hospitality was matched only by their enthusiasm to share the story behind the UK4 project—a facility designed under the visionary “Three Zeros for Sustainable Development” concept: zero halogenated hydrocarbons, zero natural gas, and zero CO₂ emissions in non-GMP areas.
In the entry lobby, visitors are greeted by a display of the FOYA trophy and a celebratory photo from the FOYA Banquet and Awards Celebration—symbols of a well-earned recognition. Winning the FOYA Category Award for Social Impact has brought Chugai global industry recognition, and they have embraced this honor by actively connecting peers to ISPE and supporting the growth of the ISPE brand.
Learn more about Chugai’s UK4 Project
What makes the FOYA award so prestigious is that it represents recognition by industry peers—executives and professionals who understand the challenges and triumphs of building world-class facilities. It’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
If your organization is working on a facility that exemplifies these values, I strongly encourage you to submit it for FOYA consideration. The 2026 FOYA program will be open for submissions on 11 August. Applicants can submit their entries here. It’s more than an award—it’s a platform to inspire and elevate the entire industry. To stay connected with the latest in pharmaceutical engineering and facility innovation, follow ISPE on LinkedIn and consider joining ISPE as a member. It’s a community where excellence is shared, celebrated, and continuously redefined.
Congratulations again to Chugai Pharma Manufacturing Co., Ltd. for setting a new standard in sustainable facility design and for being such gracious hosts. Your work is a beacon for the future of our industry.
Join ISPE Today
Becoming a member of ISPE offers numerous benefits, including access to a vast network of professionals, exclusive training events, and valuable resources. As a member, you'll join more than 22,000 of your professional peers from over 120 countries in advancing solutions that lead to improved patient health. Membership provides access to 20+ complimentary ISPE Good Practice Guides, a robust library of on-demand training and e-learning resources, and much more. Learn more and consider joining today.
ISPE members: Get more involved by volunteering.
