SK bioscience signs vaccine technology transfer deal with Colombia's VECOL

SK bioscience announced it has signed a vaccine technology transfer and manufacturing agreement with Colombia's state-owned pharmaceutical company VECOL as part of Colombia's national vaccine localization initiative.

The initiative, led by Colombia's Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the National Health Institute, and VECOL, involves a total investment of approximately $260 million over 10 years. The project aims to strengthen national vaccine self-sufficiency and public health preparedness.

Under the agreement, SK bioscience will provide technology and expertise for manufacturing facility development, product introduction, regulatory approval, and production operations in Colombia. VECOL will oversee facility establishment, government licensing, and coordination with public health authorities.

SKYVaricella, SK bioscience's varicella vaccine, has been selected as the initial product for technology transfer. The vaccine obtained WHO prequalification certification in 2019, becoming the second varicella vaccine worldwide to receive this designation.

The Colombian government conducted a four-year review process, evaluating multiple global vaccine manufacturers before selecting SK bioscience. The assessment considered technological expertise, regulatory standards, quality competitiveness, and collaboration capabilities.

SK bioscience will secure preferential negotiation rights for vaccines to be introduced through the facility, including both its proprietary vaccines and broader vaccine products that may be adopted by the Colombian government.

Jaeyong Ahn, President and CEO of SK bioscience, stated the company is "honored to participate in this national initiative" and will contribute to "future pandemic preparedness and the establishment of a sustainable vaccine supply foundation in Latin America."

SK bioscience has supplied varicella vaccines to the Pan American Health Organization since 2022, with its contract extended through 2027. The company is also pursuing similar vaccine technology transfer and manufacturing cooperation in Thailand.

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