Sanofi brings world’s first modular concept manufacturing facility to Singapore

This next-generation facility, located in Tuas Biomedical Park in Singapore, is highly digitalised and low-carbon, representing a new era in sustainable biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Modulus leverages an ‘industry first’ modular concept that enables flexible manufacturing capabilities to produce next generation vaccines and biological medicines. The inauguration was witnessed by Ong Ye Kung, Singapore’s Minister for Health.

The inauguration of Sanofi's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Modulus, in Singapore. Photo: Sanofi

Modulus can be adapted to manufacture up to four vaccines or biopharmaceuticals simultaneously and can be reconfigured in a matter of days to change over between pre-established technological platforms (live attenuated viral or recombinant protein vaccines, as well as biotechnology derived treatments such as enzymes or monoclonal antibodies), compared with several weeks or months in more conventional plants. The Modulus building is capable of housing the equivalent of 34 standardised production modules, each equipped with interconnected and modular equipment to configure production lines rapidly according to the specific needs of the moment.

The facility will have an adaptable design and scalable production capabilities, strengthening the ability to rapidly develop and produce life-saving therapies, while also holding the potential to significantly bolster pandemic preparedness. By establishing the groundwork for crucial production modules now, Modulus can ensure a swift and targeted response to any future health needs, including potential pandemics.

Photo: Sanofi

This investment underscores Sanofi’s commitment to providing patients faster access to both existing and groundbreaking innovation, including future potential vaccines, along with biomedicines for immunology and rare diseases.

Brendan O’Callaghan, executive vice president of manufacturing and supply, Sanofi said, “Modulus brings to life Sanofi’s commitment to science and innovation. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the latest in digital innovation and advanced data analytics, Modulus will help accelerate the delivery of life-changing treatments to address unmet medical needs. More than just a factory, it redefines healthcare delivery with flexibility and speed, enabling us to meet the changing needs of the pipeline across multiple modalities, as well as respond with urgency to future public health challenges – all while delivering on our Planet Care commitments towards net zero by 2045.”

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