The European Investment Bank (EIB) signed a €750,000 technical assistance cooperation agreement on 15 June 2026 to support the preparation of a new multi-product vaccine facility at Vacsera, Egypt's national vaccine manufacturer. The agreement, announced by the EEAS on 16 June 2026, aims to strengthen domestic and regional vaccine production capacity, with part of the new production planned for export to other African countries.
The technical assistance, financed through the Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP Trust Fund), will fund a feasibility study and market analysis for the project, which has an estimated total cost of approximately €50 million. The studies are expected to underpin potential future EIB financing, the amount of which will be determined upon completion.
The project supports Egypt's ambition to strengthen local vaccine production and contributes to the African Union goal of increasing vaccine manufacturing in Africa from around 1% today to 60% by 2040. It aligns with the EU's Global Gateway strategy, which aims to strengthen health systems, promote equitable access to health products, and foster local manufacturing capacity in partner countries.
The agreement was signed in Luxembourg on 15 June 2026 by Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates, H.E. Badr Abdelatty, together with EIB Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti. Vacsera, the Holding Company for Biological Products and Vaccines, was also a signatory.
Minister Abdelatty stated that the cooperation will help meet domestic demand, support regional supply, and reinforce Africa's ability to respond to future health challenges through stronger local production. EIB Vice-President Vigliotti noted that the agreement marks an important step in supporting Egypt's efforts to strengthen vaccine manufacturing capacity and improve health security. Dr. Sherif Elfeel, Executive Managing Director of Vacsera, said the partnership will enhance manufacturing capabilities, improve quality standards, and position Egypt as a key supplier for the region and the continent.
Stakeholder impact
- Egypt's national health system and African regional health security: The project is expected to increase local vaccine production, reducing dependence on imports and improving pandemic preparedness. The positive impact is moderate, as the project is still in the preparatory phase.
- Vacsera: The company will benefit from technical assistance to develop a feasibility study and market analysis, potentially leading to future EIB financing. The impact is moderate, as it strengthens Vacsera's capacity and regional role.
- EU taxpayers and EIB: The €750,000 grant from the FEMIP Trust Fund, contributed by 17 EU Member States, the UK, and the European Commission, represents a modest investment with potential long-term returns in health security and geopolitical influence. The impact is small.
- African vaccine manufacturers and competitors: The project could increase competition in the African vaccine market, potentially lowering prices but also challenging existing producers. The impact is small and indirect at this stage.
The technical assistance is expected to be completed within a timeframe to be determined, after which EIB will decide on potential financing for the full project. The initiative is part of broader EU efforts under Global Gateway to mobilise up to €400 billion in investments worldwide by 2027.