DTI in talks with 6 firms for local vaccine production

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is in discussions with six companies for the local production of vaccines.

Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez identified the six firms as Greentech, Glovax Biotech, IG Biotech, New Marketlink, Lloyds Laboratories, and Unilab.

The Board of Investments (BOI), chaired by DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez, is facilitating these talks with potential local manufacturers.

This initiative aims to reduce the Philippines' reliance on imported vaccines.

It is part of the DTI's continuing push for its 'Buy Local' campaign, which also aims to create more job opportunities and aid the country's economic recovery.

The government's drive for local manufacturing is inspired by the successful repurposing of facilities by some firms to produce face masks and personal protective equipment (PPEs) during the pandemic.