Darrell Oh (left), General Director of Pfizer Vietnam, and Ngo Chi Dung (right), Chairman of the Board and General Director of VNVC Immunisation System and VNVC Vaccine and Biological Products Factory, sign the memorandum of understanding for cooperation in vaccine production on March 18. (Photo: Huu Luan).
According to the MoU, Pfizer will assist VNVC in strengthening its knowledge to establish a vaccine manufacturing plant in Vietnam that meets international standards. This will enable VNVC to produce high-quality vaccines domestically, meeting national demand while aiming to participate in the global vaccine supply chain.
The deal will focus on sharing expertise and developing joint capabilities in vaccine production from Pfizer to VNVC.Following the signing ceremony, Pfizer Vietnam will deploy top experts to conduct knowledge-sharing programmes on vaccine manufacturing for VNVC's highly qualified professionals at the Vaccine and Biological Products Factory.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen emphasised that, with the world facing numerous challenges from infectious diseases, the demand for vaccine research, development, and production has become increasingly urgent.
"The collaboration between VNVC and Pfizer is a significant milestone demonstrating Vietnam's gradual integration and access to advanced technologies, particularly in establishing a sustainable new drug and next-generation vaccine production ecosystem in Vietnam," he said.
The deputy minister highly praised VNVC and research organisations for their continuous efforts in seeking innovation to help Vietnam achieve self-sufficiency in vaccine solutions and ensure a stable and high-quality supply.
"Within just eight years, VNVC has established nearly 220 vaccination centres across many provinces, including remote and disadvantaged areas, ensuring rapid and easy vaccine access for the population," he noted.
US Consul General Susan Burns remarked that the partnership between VNVC and Pfizer marks a milestone in the growing relationship between the United States and Vietnam. This is particularly significant as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the second year of the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Darrell Oh, General Director of Pfizer Vietnam, stated, "We believe in VNVC's vision and capability in advancing preventive healthcare in Vietnam. We are confident this collaboration will positively impact patients' lives and Vietnam's healthcare landscape overall."
The VNVC Vaccine and Biological Products Factory is expected to commence construction in 2025.
Ngo Chi Dung, Chairman of the Board and General Director of VNVC Immunisation System and VNVC Vaccine and Biological Products Factory, emphasised that the partnership with Pfizer is a crucial advancement for VNVC in particular and Vietnam in general.
"This collaboration agreement opens opportunities for VNVC to learn from Pfizer's advanced vaccine production expertise, enabling VNVC to swiftly progress towards manufacturing high-quality vaccines using the world's most modern technology. This is an initial step for VNVC in seeking opportunities to receive technology transfers in vaccine production, meeting domestic immunisation needs while aiming to enter the global high-quality vaccine supply chain," he said.
