Sanofi has signed a master service agreement with IDT Australia focusing on the preclinical formulation development and current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) manufacturing of its messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines.

The partnership advances Sanofi's translational clinical programme.

The deal will provide Sanofi with the option to choose services from IDT Australia and allows for additional work packages.

The initial order is nearing finalisation, with an estimated value between A$3 ($1.9m) and A$3.5m, not including costs associated with the storage, shipping and equipment procurements.

IDT Australia will work closely with Sanofi to formulate and manufacture cGMP-compliant new mRNA-based vaccines for clinical trials, addressing a range of indications for unmet medical needs.

This contract represents a significant step for IDT Australia, with the revenue contributing to its advanced therapies (AT) vertical.

It aligns with the company's strategy to secure higher-value contracts that demand more complex formulation capabilities.

IDT Australia owns aseptic sterile fill facilities capable of processing mRNA downstream in the Asia Pacific region.

IDT Australia CEO Paul McDonald stated: “Through design and synthesis of novel molecules to novel formulations, IDT Australia is committed to translating medicine from bench to patient. We are constantly and actively investing in our capabilities to deliver complex formulation development of novel advanced therapies.

“We are thrilled to secure an agreement with Sanofi, progressing their groundbreaking science into cGMP manufacture to deliver mRNA product solutions to unmet medical needs. This collaboration with Sanofi underscores IDT Australia's unique expertise and world-class facilities while reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in the global pharmaceutical industry.”

In January 2024, Sanofi signed an agreement to acquire clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company Inhibrx for an equity value of $1.7bn.