Asahi Kasei Launches Life Science Division to Boost Bioprocess Innovation
To meet growing demand from the pharmaceutical industry, Asahi Kasei has established Asahi Kasei Life Science to operate its bioprocess businesses under a new organizational structure.
Through this change, the company can offer the industry more agile and focused services, deeper innovation in bioprocess solutions, and stronger support in emerging modalities.
Effective April 1, 2025, Asahi Kasei Life Science began operations, consolidating its bioprocess-related business units under one entity. This includes virus removal filters such as Planova and BioOptimal Microfilters, CRO testing services from ViruSure (Austria) and Bionique Testing Laboratories (US), and CDMO services from Bionova Scientific (US). These acquisitions, made between 2019 and 2022, strengthen Asahi Kasei’s ability to support pharmaceutical manufacturing with innovative solutions and streamlined services.
Asahi Kasei Life Science offers a wide range of bioprocess products and services, including Planova virus removal filters and newly launched innovations like FG1 and THESYS SCS/ACS Columns, enhancing safety and productivity in biotherapeutics manufacturing. Recent expansions include a scaled facility in Illinois for fluid management and virus filtration technology, a new Planova assembly plant in Japan, and a plasmid DNA facility in Texas under Bionova, supporting cell and gene therapy advancements. These investments reinforce Asahi Kasei's leadership in bioprocess innovation.
“I am thrilled to announce the start of operations at Asahi Kasei Life Science, which began on April 1,” said Ken Shinomiya, President of Asahi Kasei Life Science. “Focused on the field of life science centered on the bioprocess business, we aim to expand as part of the growing Healthcare sector business, the main growth driver of the Asahi Kasei Group. We will contribute to the advancement of the pharmaceutical industry as a premium partner that provides innovative and reliable products and services to pharmaceutical companies.”
