Bharat Biotech, GSK to cut malaria vaccine price by more than half by 2028

Bharat Biotech and GSK Pledge to Reduce Price of RTS,S Malaria Vaccine by 2028

Context:

Malaria continues to be a major public health challenge in endemic regions, particularly in Africa.
RTS,S is the world’s first malaria vaccine for children, recommended by WHO in 2021.
Ensuring affordable access is critical to scale up immunisation coverage and reduce malaria burden.

Key Details of the Collaboration:

Partners: Bharat Biotech International Ltd (BBIL) and GSK plc.
Objective: Reduce RTS,S vaccine price by more than 50%, to below USD 5, by 2028.
Support: Collaboration backed by Gavi (Vaccine Alliance) and WHO.
Goal: Protect at least 50 million more children in Africa by 2030.

Mechanism for Price Reduction:

Process improvements in vaccine production.
Expanded manufacturing capacity.
Cost-effective production methods.
Minimal profit margins to make the vaccine affordable.
Technology transfer from GSK to Bharat Biotech for local production and efficiency gains.

Implementation & Timeline:

Full implementation expected by 2028, phased approach ongoing.
Introduction of RTS,S in 12 endemic African countries via routine immunisation programmes by end of 2025.
Bharat Biotech has invested USD 200 million in new manufacturing facilities and technology transfer.

Significance / Implications:

Strengthens global equity in vaccine access, especially for vulnerable children.
Accelerates malaria immunisation coverage and contributes to malaria control and elimination goals.
Enhances India’s role in global vaccine development and technology transfer.
Demonstrates effective public-private partnership in global health initiatives.

Policy / Public Health Relevance:

Supports Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), particularly target 3.3 (end malaria epidemic by 2030).
Reinforces international collaboration in tackling infectious diseases.
Provides a model for affordable vaccine deployment in low- and middle-income countries.

Updated - June 26, 2025 12:38 am | The Hindu