Moderna to build mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility in Canada

The new facility will provide access to domestically manufactured vaccines against respiratory viruses

Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines pioneer Moderna has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Canadian government to build a state-of-the-art vaccine manufacturing facility in Canada.

Not only will this MoU serve to support Canada with direct access to rapid pandemic response capabilities, it will also provide Canadians with access to Moderna's vaccines in development for respiratory viruses including COVID-19, seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and potential other vaccines, pending licensure.

Moderna, which used its mRNA platform in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, recently announced data from the final analysis of the Phase III COVE study demonstrating that vaccination with its COVID-19 vaccine showed 93% efficacy, with this efficacy remaining durable 6 months after administration of the second dose.

The company's Chief Executive Officer, Stéphane Bancel, said the company is looking to expand this "innovative business model" internationally. The company is already in discussions with other governments about potential collaborations built on a similar model.

Patricia Gauthier, Moderna’s Canadian General Manager said: “With our industry-leading mRNA technology platform and rapid drug development capabilities, we look forward to being an active participant in Canada’s robust life sciences ecosystem.”