SPIMACO signs term sheet to supply HPV vaccines

Logo of Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries and Medical Appliances Corporation (SPIMACO)

Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries and Medical Appliances Corporation (SPIMACO) signed a non-binding term sheet with Jiangsu Recbio Technology Co., Ltd. (Recbio) on the licensing, supply and technology transfer of recombinant Human Papillomavirus 9-valent vaccine (HPV vaccine).

In a statement to Tadawul the company said that the term sheet was signed on Jan. 22, and is valid for one year, and may be extended with the approval of both parties.

This alliance plays a pivotal role in SPIMACO’s strategic initiatives, reinforcing the company’s dedication to promoting the localization of cutting-edge biopharmaceuticals within the Saudi market.

Partnering with Recbio is a vital stride in guaranteeing widespread access to crucial vaccines locally and regionally and, consequently, contributing to the broader enhancement of public health, the statement added.

Based on the term sheet, and subject to the definitive agreement, which shall be executed within nine months from signing of the sheet, SPIMACO will receive an exclusive license to import HPV vaccines in finished product form, ready-to-fill bulk product from Recbio and conduct filling and packaging in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-listed medicine manufacturer will also commercialize and distribute Recbio’s HPV vaccine in the Kingdom and the wider MENA region including the application for and obtaining the required marketing authorizations.

Meanwhile, the company will localize the production of HPV vaccines in bulk format following the conclusion of the technology transfer.

The HPV vaccine prevents HPV infections that can progress to cancer, such as cervical cancer, SPIMACO said.

Cervical cancer ranks as the 8th most frequent cancer among women in Saudi Arabia and the 8th most chronic cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.

Backed by the endorsement of the Saudi Ministry of Health, the HPV vaccine is included in the country’s national immunization schedule with two doses required for females at the age of 11 & 12, the statement also indicated.