SK bioscience Signs Vaccine Technology Transfer Agreement with Colombia's VECOL to Advance Local Vaccine Manufacturing in Latin America

SK bioscience has partnered with Colombia’s state-owned pharmaceutical company VECOL under a $260 million government-led initiative to advance local vaccine manufacturing. The agreement, announced as part of Colombia’s vaccine localization program, will enable SK bioscience to transfer technology for producing SKYVaricella, its proprietary varicella vaccine, at a facility in Colombia. This collaboration follows a four-year evaluation process by the Colombian government, which selected SK bioscience for its WHO prequalified vaccine portfolio, regulatory compliance, and experience in public procurement supply. VECOL, designated by Colombia’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection, will oversee facility development, regulatory approvals, and integration with the National Immunization Program (NIP). SK bioscience will provide technical expertise, manufacturing know-how, and support for workforce training, ensuring compliance with global standards. The partnership also grants SK bioscience preferential rights to introduce additional vaccines through the facility, aligning with Colombia’s broader goals of health sovereignty and supply chain resilience. Colombia’s Ministry of Health emphasized that the agreement marks a key step in rebuilding domestic scientific and industrial capabilities, reducing reliance on external vaccine suppliers. The project is expected to strengthen public health security not only in Colombia but across Latin America, where demand for localized vaccine production has surged post-pandemic. SK bioscience plans to use this partnership as a strategic entry point for expanding its regional manufacturing operations, potentially diversifying into other vaccine products in the future. The collaboration aligns with global trends toward decentralized vaccine production, aiming to enhance regional autonomy in public health responses. By establishing a local manufacturing hub, Colombia seeks to improve access to vaccines while fostering long-term technological and workforce development. The initiative underscores the growing importance of public-private partnerships in addressing future health challenges with greater self-sufficiency.