Sanofi Launches $595 Million Evolutive Vaccine Facility in Singapore to Enhance Pandemic Preparedness
Singapore — Sanofi, the French pharmaceutical giant, inaugurated a cutting-edge evolutive vaccine facility (EVF) in Singapore on Wednesday, marking a significant $595 million investment. This facility, named Modulus, is the first of its kind for Sanofi outside of France and is designed to improve global readiness for pandemics.
What sets the Modulus facility apart is its ability to rapidly switch between the production of different vaccines and treatments in just days—an enhancement over traditional plants, which can take weeks or even months to adapt. The facility is equipped to simultaneously produce up to four different vaccines or biopharmaceuticals, helping to address urgent health needs.
Sanofi emphasized the strategic importance of this facility, stating that it will play a crucial role in pandemic preparedness by laying the groundwork for agile production capabilities. “By establishing the groundwork for crucial production modules now, Modulus can ensure a swift and targeted response to any future health needs, including potential pandemics,” the company stated.
This project is part of a larger investment strategy, wherein Sanofi aims to invest 900 million euros ($948 million) to develop two EVFs worldwide over the next five years, with the other facility located in Neuville-sur-Saône, France.
Brendan O’Callaghan, Sanofi’s executive vice president for manufacturing and supply, shared insights with CNBC, noting that while the Modulus facility serves global manufacturing needs, it is designed to flexibly adjust production in the event of a pandemic. “We can scale down our existing production, scale up the new production that might be needed, and try to meet a balance,” he explained.
Singapore's Health Minister Ong Ye Kung highlighted the importance of enhancing pandemic readiness, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which brought forth challenges like vaccine nationalism. During his keynote speech at the inauguration event, he introduced Singapore’s welcoming approach to international investments in building health capabilities.
The Modulus facility is expected to create approximately 200 jobs for local talent, including positions for bioprocess engineers, automation specialists, and data analysts. The facility is projected to be fully operational by mid-2026.
Ong emphasized that Singapore's small local market is an asset rather than a liability, as it positions the facility to cater to broader regional and global demands. The country’s attractive tax regime, skilled workforce, and stable industrial relations further bolster its appeal to international investors. He assured attendees, “Never be afraid of unions here. They work collaboratively with industry and government to achieve shared goals.”
With favorable living conditions, strong legal frameworks, and a stable political climate, Singapore continues to attract major players in the pharmaceutical industry to establish critical facilities.
