China-based Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) WuXi Biologics (HKG: 2269) is poised to sell its assets related to vaccine facilities in Ireland to US pharmaceutical giant Merck, Sharp & Dohme (MSD; NYSE: MRK) for a consideration of USD 500 million. This strategic move reflects WuXi Biologics’ ongoing efforts to optimize its global operations.
Background of the Agreement
In May 2019, WuXi Bio’s Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) subsidiary, WuXi Vaccines, signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with an unnamed “global vaccine leader.” The LOI outlined a twenty-year contract worth USD 3 billion for WuXi, involving the establishment of a vaccine manufacturing facility in Ireland. This facility includes drug substance manufacturing (MFG15), drug product manufacturing (DP5), and Quality Control labs (QC).
Related Developments
In a related development, CDMO WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd (SHA: 603259) announced in December 2024 the sale of all stakes in WuXi Advanced Therapies Inc. and Oxford Genetics Limited, its operation entities in the US and UK, to Altaris LLC. This further demonstrates WuXi Biologics’ strategic focus on streamlining its global business portfolio.-Fineline Info & Tech
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