Moderna’s Canadian mRNA manufacturing facility construction completed

Moderna recently announced that its state-of-the art mRNA manufacturing facility in Laval, Que. has completed the construction phase of the project. The company stated that the facility should come online in 2025, and begin manufacturing respiratory mRNA vaccines for Canadians. Moderna is current awaiting regulatory approvals and certifications to ensure that “all vaccines manufactured meet the strictest quality, safety and performance standards.”

“With infectious diseases continuing to pose a significant health challenge, our mRNA platform can play a pivotal role against current and future threats. Canada’s role in global health is critical, and with this facility, Moderna is honoured to contribute to its robust scientific community and public health leadership in driving innovation and transformative medicine forward,” stated Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna. 

The company stated that the completion of the Laval facility “marks an important milestone in Moderna’s strategic partnership with the federal government to support domestic preparedness for future pandemics for all Canadians,” and added that it will generate and support high-skilled employment opportunities. The facility’s construction was also partially funded by the Government of Quebec through Investissement Québec.   

“Completing the construction of our mRNA facility marks a groundbreaking moment for Moderna and Canada as we progress towards delivering a domestic mRNA vaccine supply chain. This building is a tangible example of concerted collaboration with the federal government, the government of Quebec, and the city of Laval, reflecting the lessons of the pandemic. We are proud to help drive Canada’s reputation as a mRNA centre of excellence and contributor to global health initiatives,” stated Stefan Raos, general manager, Moderna Canada. 

Moderna’s new manufacturing site was designed with environmental sustainability in mind, according to the company, which stated that minimal fossil fuel usage is needed since Quebec’s electricity is generated from renewable resources. The company stated that the facility works towards Moderna’s drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030 in scopes 1 and 2.

“We are grateful to our team and our partners who have contributed to the construction of this facility.  Your urgency and diligence have laid the foundation for a healthier future for Canadians and set an enviable global benchmark in biotech facility design and construction,” stated Roger-Ketcha Ngassam, manufacturing site head, Moderna Canada.

Source: Moderna.