The story
From the 1980s, tax incentives for Goa, an educated workforce and closeness to Mumbai drew drug makers to Goa's industrial estates at Verna, Kundaim, Colvale and Pilerne. Many Indian and foreign companies now run formulation plants here, several approved by foreign regulators, along with contract manufacturers that make medicines for other brands.
In numbers
Goa has an established base for the pharmaceuticals industry and is an emerging destination for knowledge-based industries such as biotechnology and IT.
IBEF – Goa infographic, April 2026 · 2026
Ways in for a newcomer
- Packaging supply: blister foil, cartons, labels and bottles
- Validation, calibration and quality-testing services
- Contract manufacturing for small pharma brands
- Staffing and training for GMP plants
Problems the cluster faces
- Strict US FDA and EU audits
- Limited industrial land in Goa
- Price controls and tariff changes in export markets
- Skilled-staff shortage for regulated plants
Businesses to start here
Medicinal Tablets Manufacturing Unit →Capsule Shells and Medicine Blister Foil →Vitamin C Capsule Making →Ayurvedic Tablet Making →