Valneva Resumes Control of Ixchiq Vaccine Supply in Asia
Valneva Takes Back Charge of Chikungunya Vaccine Supply in Asia
In a significant shift in its global distribution strategy, Valneva has announced the termination of its license agreement with the Serum Institute of India (SII) for the supply of its chikungunya vaccine in Asian markets.
The decision to end the partnership comes only a year after the two companies began their collaboration in December 2024. The original agreement aimed to leverage SII’s status as the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer to ensure the availability of Valneva’s one-shot vaccine, branded as Ixchiq, in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs).
Strategic Reclaiming of Commercial Control
Valneva stated that the discontinuation of the agreement stems from a desire to "assume direct control over its supply chain and commercialization for endemic high-risk countries." This move signals a more centralized approach by the French vaccine specialist as it navigates the complex regulatory and commercial landscape of Southeast Asia.
Current Status of Ixchiq:
- ! Regulatory Landscape: While the European license restriction was lifted in July 2025, the US FDA suspended the license in August 2025 due to reports of serious adverse events (SAEs).
- ✓ Funding Support: CEPI previously allocated $41.3m to Valneva to expand access to Ixchiq and support clinical trials in vulnerable groups.
- i Market Dynamics: Competition has increased with the entry of Bavarian Nordic’s Vimkunya vaccine in February 2025.
Operational and Financial Realignment
The past year has been turbulent for Valneva. Following regulatory challenges and safety concerns, the company adjusted its 2025 financial guidance. Sales expectations have been downgraded to between €155m and €170m, reflecting the impact of the US licence suspension and shifting market conditions.
As part of an effort to optimize its operational footprint, Valneva also recently shuttered a R&D facility in France, resulting in the termination of 30 positions. Despite these headwinds, Ixchiq remains a cornerstone of Valneva’s portfolio, which also includes Ixiaro/Jespect for Japanese encephalitis and Dukoral for cholera.
Addressing the Chikungunya Burden in Asia
Chikungunya remains a critical public health threat in tropical regions, particularly Southeast Asia. In 2025, India reported the highest number of cases in the region. The virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, causes severe fever and joint pain, highlighting the urgent need for stable and reliable vaccine distribution networks. Valneva's decision to take direct charge suggests a commitment to managing these high-risk markets with closer oversight of safety and clinical outcomes.
