BioNet, a Franco-Thai vaccine biotech group, and PT Bio Farma (Persero), Indonesia's state-owned vaccine manufacturer, have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on development and regional distribution of a combined TdaP vaccine targeting tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular recombinant pertussis. The agreement was formalized during French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to Indonesia, highlighting the international significance of this healthcare partnership.
Strategic Partnership Framework
The collaboration combines BioNet's proprietary recombinant pertussis technology and global clinical experience with Bio Farma's large-scale manufacturing capabilities and established public health infrastructure. The TdaP vaccine will integrate Bio Farma's tetanus and diphtheria antigens with BioNet's acellular recombinant pertussis components, creating a comprehensive immunization solution for Southeast Asian populations.
"This agreement reflects our shared goal to make next-gen vaccines accessible where needed most," said Philippe Guillot-Chêne, CEO of BioNet Europe. "By aligning our strengths, BioNet and Bio Farma strengthen the regional health ecosystem and ASEAN's capacity to respond to current and emerging infectious disease threats."
Accelerated Development Timeline
The partnership aims to dramatically reduce vaccine introduction timelines from the traditional 10-15 years to less than five years through coordinated clinical development and regulatory alignment strategies. Bio Farma will lead clinical trials and regulatory submissions in Indonesia, while BioNet will handle regulatory processes in the other nine ASEAN countries.
This division of responsibilities leverages each organization's regional expertise and regulatory relationships, potentially streamlining the approval process across multiple jurisdictions simultaneously.
Market Potential and Target Populations
The TdaP vaccine targets the ASEAN market with an estimated annual demand of 10-15 million doses, representing a market value of approximately USD 200 million. The vaccine is specifically designed for Indonesian adolescents, pregnant women, and elderly populations, addressing critical immunization gaps in these vulnerable groups.
"Through this collaboration, we are reinforcing Indonesia's commitment to regional vaccine self-sufficiency and innovation," said Yuliana Indriati, Director of Business Development at Bio Farma. "With BioNet's advanced recombinant pertussis technology and our production capacity, we aim to ensure timely access to TdaP vaccines for Indonesian adolescents, pregnant women, and the elderly. We hope this product will soon be part of our immunization program."
Regional Health Security Implications
The partnership addresses broader regional health security objectives by strengthening pandemic preparedness, building resilient vaccine supply chains, and improving equitable healthcare access across Southeast Asia. The collaboration aligns with Indonesia's national self-reliance goals under President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita framework, particularly focusing on healthcare accessibility and quality improvement.
The initiative represents a significant step toward ASEAN vaccine self-sufficiency, reducing regional dependence on external vaccine suppliers while building local manufacturing and development capabilities for future health emergencies.
