Moderna join forces with Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma to promote mRNA vaccines in Japan

JAPAN— Moderna, a leading mRNA vaccine developer, and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation (MTPC), a major Japanese pharmaceutical company, have announced a joint agreement to co-promote Moderna’s mRNA respiratory vaccine portfolio in Japan.

This strategic partnership focuses on expanding access to Moderna’s mRNA respiratory vaccines, including their COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax.

Under the terms of this strategic agreement, Moderna will oversee the manufacturing, sales, medical education, and distribution of its mRNA respiratory vaccines.

Meanwhile, both companies will actively engage in initiatives designed to ensure broad access to Moderna’s mRNA respiratory portfolio, thereby aiming to maximize its positive impact on public health in Japan.

This partnership has been set for an initial term lasting until March 31, 2029. However, specific financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

In his address, Kazumasa Nagayama, President and Representative Director of Moderna Japan, expressed his pleasure in partnering with Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma to facilitate the commercialization of their COVID-19 vaccine and future mRNA respiratory vaccine portfolio for the Japanese populace.

He underscored the significance of this collaboration by highlighting Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma’s long-standing heritage and substantial contributions to public health in Japan through numerous vaccines.

Additionally, he emphasized that the company’s extensive experience and deep knowledge in the vaccine sector make it an invaluable partner in this endeavor.

Nagayama also pointed out the ongoing threat posed by COVID-19, stressing the importance of making their vaccine widely available in Japan to mitigate this significant public health risk.

On his part, Akihiro Tsujimura, Representative Director of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, acknowledged the pivotal role Moderna has played globally since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He highlighted the company’s successful delivery of COVID-19 vaccines to a vast number of individuals worldwide, which has been crucial in combating the pandemic.

Tsujimura expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that working with Moderna on the commercial activities for Japan’s COVID-19 vaccine and other mRNA respiratory vaccines aligns perfectly with their mission.

 He reiterated their commitment to continuing their contributions to public health in Japan through their dedicated vaccine business.

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