Sanofi to build Mexico’s first insulin plant with technology transfer

Sanofi Mexico presented a project to build the country’s first insulin production plant, an initiative that would include technology transfer, the development of industrial capabilities and local production aimed at supplying the national health system.

Paola Martorelli, Corporate Affairs Director of Sanofi Mexico, said the proposal is part of the company’s strategy to strengthen national pharmaceutical production capacity and address one of the country’s main public health challenges related to diabetes.

“The timely availability of insulin does not depend solely on purchasing it abroad, but on the country’s ability to produce it, distribute it and respond with certainty to the population’s demand.”

Local insulin production would strengthen Mexico’s pharmaceutical industry

Martorelli explained that the construction of an insulin plant would make it possible to develop specialized local infrastructure, transfer technology, train talent and strengthen national supply chains.

“The construction of an insulin plant in Mexico would mark a turning point. It would transform a permanent need of the public health system into installed capacity within the country.”

The company currently operates a vaccine antigen plant in Ocoyoacac, State of Mexico, where it generates nearly 900 direct jobs and more than 1,500 indirect jobs. It also produces more than 150 million units of medicines and vaccines distributed annually throughout the country. The executive added that Sanofi also invests more than MXN 655 million per year in clinical studies conducted in Mexico.

Sanofi seeks to expand manufacturing capabilities and health sovereignty

The project includes the production of first- and second-generation basal insulins, as well as rapid-acting insulin, with the potential capacity to serve all Mexican patients who require this medicine.

“Its launch could cover 100% of Mexican patients who require the medicine, and there would even be potential to scale production.”

Martorelli emphasized that Sanofi has a global presence in more than 150 countries and that the project aligns with the industrial strengthening and health sovereignty strategies promoted in Mexico.

“These elements are fully aligned with Plan Mexico and its pillar of strengthening the pharmaceutical industry,” she added.