"Moderna Plans Vaccine Production in Asian Countries Including Japan"

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[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] Moderna, the American pharmaceutical company and developer of the COVID-19 vaccine, has announced that it is considering producing vaccines in Asian countries, including Japan. This has sparked interest in whether Moderna vaccines could also be produced in South Korea.

On the 21st, Moderna's CEO, St?phane Bancel, stated in an interview with Nihon Keizai Shimbun, "We are considering vaccine production in Asian countries, including Japan."

CEO Bancel added, "Although it is still in the early stages of discussion, we are currently consulting with Japanese industry and experts," and said, "We expect that vaccine production will be fully possible with Japan's technological capabilities and human resources."

Moderna's plan to expand production locations is interpreted as a strong commitment to significantly increase vaccine supply. Moderna has set a goal to produce approximately 3 billion doses of the vaccine by next year. The company also announced plans to double the vaccine production capacity at its Swiss factory.

Notably, the statement about producing vaccines not only in Japan but also in the 'Asian region' draws attention. It suggests the possibility of expanding vaccine production in other Asian countries such as South Korea.

Previously, there were reports that Moderna was discussing a contract for vaccine contract manufacturing with Samsung Biologics.

CEO Bancel also expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for approving the use of the Moderna vaccine before the Tokyo Olympics.

Earlier, the Japanese government signed a contract to receive 50 million doses of the vaccine from Moderna by September. According to Japanese authorities, large-scale vaccination centers will be opened throughout Tokyo and Osaka by August 24 to administer the Moderna vaccine.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.