Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative

The Pasteur Network Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (VMI), supported by the Wellcome Trust, is a transformative effort to address systemic gaps in vaccine access, manufacturing sovereignty, and epidemic preparedness. The initiative was catalyzed during the Pasteur Network Annual Meeting (PNAM) 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, where member institutes recognized the need for deeper collaboration across the vaccine value chain. Building on this momentum, representatives from key manufacturing institutes convened in Casablanca in May 2025 to align on a shared vision. During the meeting, the VMI group developed a roadmap for 2025 (including a focus on collaborative trainings) and finalizing a Network-wide business case to align on priorities and attract investment in the Network.

Leveraging the Network’s diverse vaccine manufacturing capabilities (spanning over 2,600 staff across 9 countries and more than 525 million doses produced annually) the VMI ultimately seeks to create an interconnected, sustainable ecosystem for vaccine development, production, and equitable distribution. Core objectives include improving regional production infrastructure / scaling up capacity, and implementing cross-member initiatives such as technology transfer, a clinical trial network, and joint end-to-end manufacturing operations.

In addition, the VMI has proposed a series of integrated programs. These include establishing a Biomanufacturing Knowledge and Training Hub to build technical skills and harmonize manufacturing practices across members, creating a centralized platform for collaboration through shared IP frameworks and communication tools, and launching a Bio-Accelerator to drive research innovation and expedite the development of promising vaccine candidates.

These efforts are supported by a collaborative governance structure and are aligned with PN principles of equitable access, knowledge sharing, and local leadership. Together, this initiative is intended not only to enhance the Pasteur Network’s role in the global, regional, and local vaccine landscape but also to position its members as trusted partners in advancing public health security and innovation.