“It’s a riskier and more aggressive approach,” says Prashant Yadav, a vaccine supply-chain expert at the Center for Global Development, a Washington-based think-tank.

At first glance, it may seem as if the world will soon have more than enough COVID-19 vaccines. Manufacturers have produced approximately ten billion individual doses since states began approving inoculations in the middle of 2020.

Regulatory hurdles and supply chain issues could slow efforts to produce generic versions of Merck’s antiviral molnupiravir for developing nations, despite licensing agreements.

On the morning of August 26, roughly two dozen global-health advocates logged on to a Zoom call with members of the White House COVID-19 task force to sort through a number of issues that could impede the rollout of vaccines donated to the developing world.

Drug companies and wealthy countries are facing increased pressure to partner with firms in the global south but are reluctant to relinquish control.

WHO trying to help poorer nations secure COVID-19 shots Moderna has said it won't enforce patent rights But stalled talks with company could slow project