The global burden of HPV-related cancers remains substantial, with the virus accounting for an estimated 620,000 cancer cases in women and 70,000 in men in 2019.
Published Jun 30, 2025 | 6:03 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 30, 2025 | 6:03 PM
ervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide.
Synopsis: Hyderabad-based Biological E Limited has partnered with China’s Recbio to manufacture and distribute a 9-valent HPV vaccine, with an aim to expand access in India and global markets. The agreement includes technology transfer, clinical development support, and future local production of the vaccine, which is currently in Phase III trials.
Hyderabad-based Biological E Limited (BE) has announced a partnership with China’s Jiangsu Recbio Technology Company Limited to manufacture and distribute a 9-valent Human Papillomavirus (HPV9) vaccine.
The HPV9 vaccine is designed to protect against HPV types linked to cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, as well as genital warts. It is currently in Phase III clinical trials in China and is intended for individuals aged 9 to 45.
BE said the agreement marks the start of a technology transfer process that will enable the company to manufacture and commercialise the vaccine in India and in global markets, including through tenders by UNICEF and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
“This partnership comes at a critical time when there is a growing demand globally for affordable and effective HPV vaccines,” said Mahima Datla, Managing Director of Biological E Limited.
“We are committed to ensuring that this life-saving vaccine reaches those who need it the most, both in India and beyond.”
Dr Liu Yong, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Recbio, called the agreement a major step forward for the company’s global reach.
“This cooperation is another significant step for Recbio as we enter new global markets. Together with BE, we aim to accelerate the launch of the HPV9 vaccine in India and make meaningful contributions to public health worldwide.”
The global burden of HPV-related cancers remains substantial, with the virus accounting for an estimated 620,000 cancer cases in women and 70,000 in men in 2019.
Cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Experts believe the 9-valent vaccine could prevent up to 90 percent of cervical cancers and cases of anal/genital warts.
Under the agreement, Recbio will supply BE with the drug substance and transfer the technology required to formulate, fill, and package the HPV9 vaccine – REC603 – which targets nine strains of the virus.
Going forward, Recbio will also support BE in developing the capacity to manufacture the drug substance within India.
Technology transfer activities are already under way, with Recbio assisting BE in clinical development and regulatory approval processes. BE is expected to begin large-scale production after the transfer is complete.
The partnership is expected to strengthen India’s role as a global vaccine manufacturing hub and bolster ongoing efforts to increase access to HPV vaccines in low- and middle-income countries.
