Chinese Biotech Firm Sinovac Confirms Commitment to Chile
Sinovac, the Chinese pharmaceutical giant known for its crucial role in the global COVID-19 vaccination effort, has reaffirmed its commitment to Chile while outlining aspiring plans for future growth in the South American nation.
weining Meng, Vice President of Sinovac, expressed the company’s positive outlook on its Chilean operations, highlighting the strong collaboration with the Chilean government during the pandemic and the triumphant rollout of sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine, Coronavac, in the country. “Our vaccine arrived in chile in January 2022, and the use of this vaccine shows us the trust of the country and citizens in Sinovac.”
Plant Construction Contingent on Influenza Vaccine Tender
Despite abandoning plans for an Innovation and Growth Center in Antofagasta due to logistical concerns, Sinovac remains committed to building a vaccine production plant in Quilicura. Though, Meng clarified that this project is contingent on winning a tender for long-term influenza vaccine production.
“We are very grateful for our development in Chile. In addition to the Coronavac vaccine, we have also collaborated with universities and have been in continuous collaboration with the Chilean government to promote local production.”
Overcoming Challenges, Exploring Opportunities
Meng acknowledged that product registration has presented the biggest hurdle for Sinovac in Chile. While three new products have been successfully registered, four others remain in the process. He emphasized the importance of expediting this process, stating, ”If this process could be accelerated further, it would be very positive because in reality, of the products that we are registering today, there are some that are needed in Chile.”
Addressing concerns about security and crime in Chile, Meng expressed that while thes issues exist, they are being weighed against the country’s attractive investment climate. ” Chile, compared to other Latin American countries, has solid legislation, is committed to a free market economy and has significant human talent. Chile continues to be a country worth investing in.”
Expanding Horizons: Sinovac’s Future in Chile
Sinovac is actively focusing on two key areas: registering its products for use in the Chilean market and commercializing vaccines through both the private market and government tenders. They are also working closely with the Chilean Ministries of Economy and Health to secure a long-term tender for influenza vaccines.
With their established presence in Chile and ambitious vision for the future, Sinovac continues to play a significant role in the country’s healthcare landscape.