Sanofi and Vietnam Vaccine JSC (VNVC) have officially launched a major vaccine manufacturing facility in Vietnam, representing a significant milestone in the country's pharmaceutical infrastructure development. The state-of-the-art production plant, located in Long An province, received an initial investment of 2 trillion dong ($77.19 million) and spans 2.6 hectares.
The facility launch ceremony was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron during his diplomatic visit to Vietnam, where he and Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong exchanged documents on vaccine production technology transfer between Sanofi and VNVC. This high-level diplomatic engagement underscores the strategic importance of the partnership, which comes as France and Vietnam have upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as of October 2024.
Production Capacity and Timeline
The new manufacturing facility is projected to produce 100 million vaccine doses annually, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2027. The plant is designed to supply vaccines for both Vietnam's domestic market and international export, positioning the country as a regional hub for pharmaceutical production and distribution.
Sanofi and VNVC will implement a gradual technology transfer process to enable local production of important Sanofi vaccines in Vietnam. Beyond manufacturing capabilities, Sanofi will also support VNVC in human resource training and quality management systems for vaccine research and production.
Strategic Healthcare Infrastructure Development
The facility is strategically positioned to enhance Vietnam's vaccine self-sufficiency while contributing to the global vaccine supply chain. This initiative aligns with Sanofi's broader strategy to expand its presence in emerging markets and reinforces its position as a global vaccine leader.
The collaboration addresses Vietnam's growing healthcare needs and supports the government's goals to attract high-quality foreign investment in biotechnology and life sciences. The facility leverages cutting-edge technology combined with Sanofi's extensive vaccine expertise to strengthen Vietnam's pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities.
Regional and Global Impact
The launch comes amid heightened global focus on vaccine access and preparedness following recent pandemic experiences. The new facility positions Sanofi and VNVC to meet growing demand for essential vaccines not only within Vietnam but across neighboring countries in the region.
This development represents an important step toward advancing bilateral health relations between France and Vietnam through trade, human resource training, scientific research collaboration, technology transfer, and high-tech production. The Vietnamese health sector aims to expand international cooperation in high-level science and technology, improve epidemic response capabilities, and establish foundations for future biomedical developments.
The opening of this manufacturing site marks a significant advancement in Vietnam's healthcare development trajectory, offering long-term benefits in vaccine accessibility, economic growth, and international pharmaceutical sector cooperation.
