Moderna Eyes Purchase of BioNTech Plants as BioNTech Announces Facility Closures in Germany

US biotech firm Moderna is assessing a possible acquisition of production sites owned by German rival BioNTech. CEO Stéphane Bancel told the Handelsblatt that the company would consider buying the plants if it could secure a long‑term partnership with the German government, citing a “massive sovereignty problem” if Europe loses mRNA‑manufacturing capacity. He added that better regulatory conditions are needed and that alternatives in Europe would be explored should Berlin not cooperate.

At the same time BioNTech is confronting a sharp revenue decline and a restructuring program that includes up to 1,860 job cuts. The company confirmed it will shut the former Curevac site in Tübingen, threatening around 750 positions. The German state had invested €300 million in the facility, and officials claim BioNTech had promised to keep a substantial presence there until 2027. BioNTech disputes allegations of breaking the pledge, saying any phase‑out will be negotiated with works councils.

These developments highlight a broader reshaping of Germany’s mRNA vaccine production landscape, with potential implications for employment, public‑sector investment, and the country’s biotech competitiveness.