The new plant is designed to enhance health sovereignty and reindustrialization efforts, allowing for the production of multiple vaccine types, including mRNA and recombinant protein vaccines.

Modulus can produce up to four different vaccines simultaneously and has the capability to switch production focus within days, making it a crucial asset for rapid response during health emergencies.

The innovative design of the Modulus facility allows for increased flexibility and efficiency in vaccine and biologic production, challenging traditional manufacturing methods.

On September 10, French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated Sanofi's new modular vaccines and biologics manufacturing facility, named Modulus, in Neuville-sur-Saône, near Lyon.

This facility represents a significant investment of 500 million euros from both Sanofi and the French government, initially announced by Macron during the COVID-19 crisis to bolster France's health sovereignty.

With the potential to manufacture up to 500 million vaccine doses annually, this facility marks a significant advancement in the pharmaceutical industry.

Described as the world's first modular factory, Modulus can rapidly change manufacturing processes that typically take months, showcasing a revolutionary approach to vaccine production.

The facility will begin by manufacturing three vaccines currently in phase 3 trials, including an mRNA vaccine for pneumonia and a nasal vaccine for RSV in children, expected to hit the market by late 2026.

Sanofi aims to produce between seven to nine products annually at this site, significantly reducing the time needed for vaccine availability by one to two years.

Macron emphasized the importance of stronger pharmaceutical sovereignty in France to prevent the supply chain issues experienced during the pandemic.

In addition to this facility, Sanofi has announced an additional €1.1 billion investment in France by 2024, including plans to double monoclonal antibody production capacity.

A recent survey indicated that 82% of French citizens support reindustrialization, particularly in the health sector, reflecting a national desire for increased domestic manufacturing.