Moderna, Inc., a provider of messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines, entered into a long-term agreement with Ontario-based Novocol Pharma, a sterile injectable contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), to perform aseptic fill-finish, labelling and packaging of mRNA respiratory vaccines expected to be produced in Canada.

The agreement with Novocol Pharma will result in the 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.

To assist with the creation of highly sophisticated manufacturing capabilities necessary to fill and finish the mRNA vaccines, the Government of Ontario, through the Ontario Together Fund, has provided a grant to Moderna.

The partnership with Novocol Pharma also supports Canada’s Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) strategic investments to provide onshore respiratory vaccine manufacturing capabilities and support national pandemic readiness for all Canadians.

The agreement also expands Moderna’s footprint and investment in Ontario to help make available mRNA vaccines for all Canadians and to support high-skilled jobs in this growing sector. Together with the new facility in Laval and partnerships with local universities and biotech start-ups, Moderna is helping to drive Canada’s position as an mRNA center of excellence.

“Canada’s scientific expertise and biomanufacturing capabilities make it a key and strategic country for Moderna as we expand our mRNA technology capabilities globally,” said Jerh Collins, chief technical operations and quality officer, Moderna. “Novocol Pharma exemplifies best-in-class experience, capabilities, manufacturing systems, and controls required to prepare our mRNA vaccines and scale up production as needed to address novel or emerging viruses.”

Atif Zia, chief operating officer of Septodont and president of Novocol Pharma, said, “Novocol Pharma, a Septodont company, 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.”