In a significant move to enhance global preparedness against mpox, Danish biotechnology company Bavarian Nordic has entered a license and manufacturing agreement with the Serum Institute of India (SII). The collaboration aims to increase manufacturing capacity for Bavarian Nordic’s MVA-BN® mpox vaccine and ensure broader, equitable access to vulnerable populations.
Technology Transfer to Expand Production in India
As part of the agreement, Bavarian Nordic will conduct a technology transfer of its MVA-BN® mpox vaccine manufacturing process to SII. This transfer will allow SII to produce the vaccine for the Indian market and sell it locally under license. Additionally, once regulatory approvals are secured, SII will perform contract manufacturing of MVA-BN® for Bavarian Nordic, boosting global production capacity during mpox outbreaks.
The collaboration operates on a profit-sharing model, with no upfront or milestone payments involved. Both companies will bear the costs associated with the technology transfer, with SII taking responsibility for obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals in India.
Commitment to Global Equitable Access
This partnership aligns with Bavarian Nordic’s ongoing efforts to ensure equitable vaccine access across the globe. The agreement with SII — the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer by volume — aims to secure rapid production and distribution, particularly during health emergencies. Bavarian Nordic also continues to explore partnerships with local African manufacturers to further expand access.
Paul Chaplin, President and CEO of Bavarian Nordic, emphasized the importance of the collaboration, stating:
“We are pleased to enter this license and manufacturing agreement for MVA-BN as an mpox vaccine, which represents significant progress in our endeavors to expand access to the vaccine for all populations. While there are currently no capacity constraints, scaling of global manufacturing is an important step to ensure continued equitable access to the vaccine for all countries. We are pleased to establish this collaboration with SII.”
SII’s Commitment to Global Health
The Serum Institute of India has a long-standing mission to deliver affordable vaccines worldwide. The recent mpox outbreaks underscore the need for a swift and coordinated response. Adar Poonawalla, CEO of SII, highlighted the significance of this partnership:
“Our mission has always been to deliver high-quality, affordable vaccines worldwide. The recent mpox outbreak underscores the critical need for a swift and coordinated response. Partnering with Bavarian Nordic on the MVA-BN mpox vaccine reflects our shared commitment to protect millions at risk. Leveraging our manufacturing strength and rapid response capabilities, we aim to enhance epidemic preparedness and expand access to life-saving vaccines, safeguarding vulnerable populations and easing the global burden of mpox.”
A Step Toward Stronger Epidemic Preparedness
The agreement marks a strategic step in bolstering epidemic preparedness. By expanding manufacturing capacity through SII, Bavarian Nordic ensures a more resilient supply chain for the mpox vaccine. This collaboration promises to enhance the global response to mpox and reduce the risk of vaccine shortages during outbreaks.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Bavarian Nordic and SII signifies a major advancement in global health security. By combining Bavarian Nordic’s expertise in vaccine development with SII’s manufacturing capabilities, the agreement aims to protect at-risk populations and mitigate the impact of future mpox outbreaks.
This initiative highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing global health challenges and ensuring that vaccines reach those who need them most.
