Australian biotech giant CSL (ASX:CSL) has secured a major international contract to bolster Canada’s defences against future viral threats.
Its vaccine division, Seqirus, has been appointed by the Public Health Agency of Canada to supply 15 million doses of cell-based adjuvanted influenza vaccines should the World Health Organisation declare a formal flu pandemic.
The agreement marks a pivotal milestone for CSL's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Tullamarine, Melbourne, representing its first-ever international pandemic supply contract.
While the specific financial details remain "commercially sensitive," the deal underscores the facility's growing role in a global supply chain that already contributes approximately $300 million annually to the Australian economy.
The announcement coincided with a high-profile diplomatic visit to Australia by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
In a joint statement with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the leaders emphasised that the partnership is a testament to the deepening health and science collaboration between the two nations.
"This contract will help protect Canadians while supporting our shared health security and supply chain resilience," the statement noted.
Transitioning from traditional egg-based technologies, this new contract focuses on advanced cell-based production, reflecting a shift toward more agile and scalable manufacturing.
Seqirus, which already partners with over 30 governments worldwide, reaffirmed its long-term commitment to pandemic preparedness.
At the time of reporting, CSL’s share price was $145.70.