Singapore not making finished vaccines yet; to produce Covid-19 vaccines from 2023: Gan Kim Yong

SINGAPORE does not currently manufacture finished vaccines, although it produces active components such as bacteria antigens that go into making the final product, said Trade and Industry Minister Gan Kim Yong.

However, German pharmaceutical firm BioNTech's new plant in the Republic will begin making Covid-19 vaccines from 2023, he said, adding that Thermo Fisher and Sanofi will also manufacture a range of vaccines.

"We are anchoring more vaccine manufacturing activities here not only to meet local demand but also to supply to the world," Mr Gan said in a written reply to Jurong GRC MP Tan Wu Meng on Tuesday.

Dr Tan had asked about Singapore's vaccine manufacturing capabilities and how soon the Republic can be positioned as a vaccine research and development and manufacturing hub.

Mr Gan added that Singapore is strengthening its research and innovation ecosystem to complement and support its biopharma manufacturing activities.

One example is the Programme for Research in Epidemic Preparedness and Response (Prepare), launched this year by the Ministry of Health.

The programme is meant to develop research and technology platforms for vaccines, said Mr Gan. This would deepen Singapore's research capabilities and enhance its attractiveness as a vaccine developer partner, while improving the country's access to potential vaccines during future epidemics.

"Collectively, these efforts will strengthen and secure Singapore's position as a leading pharmaceutical hub," he said.