Garonit Pharmaceutical, Inc. has announced plans to invest $46.1 million in a new 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in New Windsor, Orange County. The company, which specializes in antiseptic products and healthcare solutions, will use the site to create what is expected to be the world’s largest chlorhexidine gluconate manufacturing operation.
New York State will provide $3.8 million in support for the project through the Excelsior Jobs Program and a capital grant from the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council. This move is part of ongoing efforts by state officials to expand life sciences and pharmaceutical manufacturing within New York.
“New York is leading the way in reshoring pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthening supply chains and creating high-quality jobs — and Garonit Pharmaceutical’s decision to invest in Orange County is proof of that progress,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “This world-class facility will produce essential antiseptic products used in surgical and hospital settings around the globe, further positioning our state as a leader in the life sciences sector. With this investment, we are not only creating good-paying jobs but also reaffirming that New York is where innovation and opportunity meet.”
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight highlighted confidence from global companies: “Garonit Pharmaceutical’s expansion into New York reflects the confidence that global companies have in our state’s workforce, infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem. The Mid-Hudson region’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and proximity to world-class transportation networks make it an ideal location for advanced manufacturing operations. This project will generate long-term economic benefits and position the region for continued growth in the pharmaceutical sector.”
Rohit Garg, owner of Garonit Pharmaceutical Inc., credited local collaboration: ”As the U.S.-based owner of an API manufacturing company, I have long aspired to produce finished pharmaceutical products here in the United States. This achievement has been made possible through the invaluable support and collaboration of dedicated teams of The State of New York, Orange County, and City leaders of New Windsor.”
Nitin Garg noted plans for research: “In designing our new manufacturing facility, we were thrilled to incorporate a dedicated technology research and development center in New Windsor, which will serve as a hub for formulating new FDA-regulated products. This milestone is strengthened by our collaboration with SUNY Orange, as we work together to develop programs that bridge operational excellence with advanced research and development.”
The company was founded in Mumbai in 1994 and now operates sites globally including locations in India, United States (where it is expanding), United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Japan.
The upcoming facility near Stewart International Airport will focus on both ANDA (Abbreviated New Drug Application) and NDA (New Drug Application) formulations requiring full FDA approval. Its production portfolio includes antiseptics commonly used during surgery or other hospital procedures. It will feature modern production lines for liquid finished dosage forms as well as laboratories equipped for quality testing.
Construction is set to begin early 2026 with anticipated completion by January 2027 when operations are scheduled to start. Officials estimate 100–150 construction jobs during building; afterward about 100 full-time positions across production management roles are planned.
Garonit Pharmaceutical has started working with SUNY Orange Community College on specialized training programs related to FDA compliance as well as associate degrees designed for pharmaceutical laboratory careers—efforts intended to prepare local residents for high-skill positions at the plant.
MHREDC Co-Chair Dr. Marsha Gordon said: “The Garonit Pharmaceutical facility represents a transformative opportunity for Orange County and demonstrates the impact of strategic regional planning. This investment will create meaningful employment opportunities for our residents while advancing our region as a destination for pharmaceutical manufacturing. The comprehensive workforce development partnership with SUNY Orange ensures that local residents will be prepared to participate in this growing industry and benefit from the career opportunities it provides.”
Conor Eckert of Orange County Partnership described this expansion as a significant step forward economically: “Garonit USA’s decision to establish its advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing and R&D facility in Orange County represents a major milestone for our region… We’re grateful to the Garonit team for selecting Orange County—and to Governor Hochul for her direct support in securing this game-changing investment.”
Local officials also expressed their support citing benefits such as job creation—for example Town Supervisor Stephen Bedetti noted redevelopment of vacant land near Stewart Airport into productive use.
With more than thirty colleges supporting workforce development statewide—and with infrastructure such as airports nearby—officials say New York continues its drive toward becoming a national leader not just academically but also industrially within biosciences.
