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Merck Increases India Investment, Focuses on Local Ecosystem

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 9:40 GMT by Business Today

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January 9th, 2026 - Merck, the global science and technology company, is significantly increasing its investment and strategic focus on India, viewing the nation as a crucial growth market poised for expansion. In a recent interview, CEO Belen Garijo detailed the company's evolving approach, moving beyond simple project-based investments to building a sustainable, locally-focused ecosystem. This commitment comes as part of Merck's overarching 'Courage to Change' strategy, designed to future-proof the 350-year-old company in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The 'Courage to Change' initiative, as Garijo explains, is about proactively adapting to the future. For Merck, this translates to agility, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation - all areas where the company is reportedly gaining momentum within the Indian market. India isn't just viewed as a market to sell into; it's increasingly becoming a vital hub for research and development, manufacturing, and crucially, talent acquisition.

Merck's Indian strategy currently prioritizes three core sectors: Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics. Within Healthcare, the company is concentrating on expanding access to cutting-edge therapies, with particular emphasis on oncology (cancer treatment) and immunology (immune system disorders). This aligns with the growing demand for advanced medical solutions within India's burgeoning healthcare sector. The Life Science division is witnessing substantial investment in both Research and Development (R&D) and manufacturing infrastructure, signaling a commitment to long-term scientific contributions from within India. Finally, the Electronics segment is focusing on high-tech materials essential for the production of displays and semiconductors - components vital for India's ambition to become a global electronics manufacturing powerhouse.

While Merck has maintained a presence in India for some time, Garijo emphasizes that the current phase of investment represents a fundamental shift in approach. Previously, investments were often isolated projects. Now, the company aims to create a holistic ecosystem fostering sustained growth. A central tenet of this new approach is a dedication to local innovation. Merck is actively seeking to leverage India's vast and highly skilled workforce to develop solutions specifically tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market. This isn't about simply adapting global products; it's about creating new solutions in India, for India, and potentially, for the world.

Beyond technological and economic goals, Merck is also heavily invested in principles of diversity and inclusion. Garijo underscored that a diverse workforce isn't merely a matter of social responsibility, but a crucial driver of innovation and resilience. Merck is actively promoting gender equality and inclusive practices throughout its Indian operations, with specific initiatives supporting women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The company aims to establish itself as an 'employer of choice' for top Indian talent, attracting and retaining the best and brightest minds.

Furthermore, sustainability is now deeply integrated into Merck's business practices in India. The company is actively reducing its environmental impact through investments in renewable energy sources and water conservation technologies. Efforts are also underway to minimize waste and embrace circular economy principles, which prioritize resource efficiency and reduce landfill waste. Garijo believes that sustainable practices aren't just ethically sound; they are fundamentally good for long-term business viability.

Merck's growing commitment to India signals a broader trend of multinational corporations recognizing the country's potential. The combination of a large, rapidly growing economy, a skilled workforce, and a supportive government is creating an increasingly attractive environment for foreign investment. However, Merck's approach stands out due to its emphasis on building a sustainable ecosystem rooted in local innovation and talent, rather than simply exploiting a growing market. The company's focus on diversity, inclusion and sustainability also underscores a commitment to responsible growth, aligning its business objectives with the broader societal goals of India.