Moderna, the biotechnology company pioneering messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines, and Septodont’s pharma division, Novocol Pharma, announced a long-term agreement to perform aseptic fill-finish, labelling and packaging of mRNA respiratory vaccines.

The agreement with Novocol Pharma will result in fill-finish capacity of vaccines manufactured at Moderna’s Laval-based mRNA facility, which is expected to become operational by the end of 2024, subject to planning and regulatory approvals.

“Through our Pharma division, this agreement represents a significant milestone in Septodont’s journey to expand its breadth in the life sciences sector. Securing domestic end-to-end vaccine production and ensuring rapid response capabilities for future pandemic readiness is a challenging and bold goal. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to serve in the Canadian biomanufacturing ecosystem with Moderna as our partner and to be a key contributor in Canada’s vaccine supply chain and pandemic readiness strategy”, said Olivier Schiller, CEO of Septodont.

“Novocol Pharma is honored to be Moderna’s fill-finish partner for domestic production of vaccines. Our partnership is a synergy of capabilities between our respective organizations. Together, we will strengthen Canada’s domestic supply chain for the production of vaccines and pandemic preparedness. This achievement has been made possible through collaboration between the private and the public sector, at both provincial and federal levels”, said Atif Zia, Chief Operating Officer of Septodont and President of Novocol Pharma.