As a result, the company claims it is now the only multi-modality vaccine and biologics development and manufacturing organisation in Singapore capable of end-to-end product development.
“The opening of the ACES facility marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing global public health through innovation and research,” Dr Raman Rao, CEO of Hilleman Laboratories said.
“To date, we remain the only vaccine R&D and manufacturing organisation in Singapore capable of developing both drug substance and drug product (to fill and finish).
“We believe that Hilleman Laboratories is well-poised to share our expertise in vaccine and biologics manufacturing to foster local capabilities while bolstering Singapore's resilience against disease outbreaks, especially those with a pandemic possibility.”
The facility at Depot Road, Singapore, is now fully operational and can produce high-value vaccines and biologics that comply with local and international regulations.
Hilleman’s latest expansion will primarily focus on supplying clinical trial materials for development of up to the phase 2 stage.
According to Hilleman, single-use systems allow the facility’s manufacturing model to remain platform-agnostic and product-independent.
Hilleman has also invested in vaccine platforms such as mRNA and viral vectors to develop and manufacture vaccines.
The facility has the built-in capability to produce vaccines and biologics for Singapore’s use during future pandemics and public health emergencies, the company said.
“Singapore has been deepening our vaccine manufacturing capabilities to enhance our pandemic resilience and improve regional vaccine access,” Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director of the Singapore Economic Development Board, commented.
“Hilleman Laboratories’ new GMP facility will build on its existing R&D presence in Singapore, to bring advanced vaccines and biologics development and manufacturing expertise to our ecosystem, and drive training and collaboration opportunities with our local institutions.”
The opening ceremony of the facility was attended by Ong Ye Kung, Singapore’s minister for health, Jacqueline Poh, Sanat Chattopadhyay, chairman of Hilleman board of directors, and the Wellcome Trust, UK.