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mRNA Technology Transfer Hub and Intellectual Property: Towards a more Equitable and Sustainable Model

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  • Adekola, Tolulope Anthony
  • Mercurio, Bryan

Abstract

The article explores how the COVID-19 pandemic revived discussions on the importance of local pharmaceutical production for promoting health security and resilient health systems. It examines the World Health Organization's hub and spoke mRNA vaccine production model (mRNA hub), a global initiative that aims to establish sustainable, local mRNA manufacturing capabilities in low- and middle-income countries in response to the inequities in access to COVID-19 vaccines and the trade disruptions during the pandemic. Using the mRNA hub as case study, the paper discusses how the tectonic shift towards local production implicates supply and license agreements, and thus IPRs. The paper maps the intellectual property challenges that might impact the mRNA hub's sustainability and provides recommendations on how to enhance the initiative's chances of success and foster a more equitable pharmaceutical sector in the future.

Suggested Citation

  • Adekola, Tolulope Anthony & Mercurio, Bryan, 2025. "mRNA Technology Transfer Hub and Intellectual Property: Towards a more Equitable and Sustainable Model," World Trade Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 24(2), pages 302-320, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:wotrrv:v:24:y:2025:i:2:p:302-320_10
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