UNICEF and Gavi secure 40% reduction in malaria vaccine price

UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, have negotiated a 40% price reduction for the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine. The agreement, supported by an advance payment from the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIm), is expected to save approximately $50 million for childhood immunization programs between 2027 and 2029.

The deal will bring the cost of the vaccine down to EUR 5.50 per dose. This reduction is contingent upon meeting specific regulatory and manufacturing milestones, such as the WHO prequalification of a new manufacturing facility intended to increase supply capacity.

The lower pricing, expected to take effect by early 2027, follows the transfer of vaccine production to a manufacturer in a developing country. This move aims to foster a more sustainable and competitive market. The cost savings could potentially protect up to one million additional children with a full four-dose course or allow for the expansion of other vaccination programs.

Since the rollout began in 2024, demand for malaria vaccines has exceeded initial forecasts, with UNICEF having procured and delivered over 74 million doses to date. The Gavi-funded program is currently part of routine immunization in 25 African countries, which account for more than 70% of the global malaria burden.