TITLE:
Localizing Vaccine Production in Saudi Arabia: International Legal Dynamics and Challenges
AUTHORS:
Tareq S. Alshammari
KEYWORDS:
Vaccine Localization, International Law, Intellectual Property Rights, Regulatory Challenges, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Vision 2030
JOURNAL NAME:
Beijing Law Review,
Vol.16 No.4,
December
24,
2025
ABSTRACT: The localization of vaccine manufacturing is an important aspect for Saudi Arabia, as it relies on healthcare imports during crises. Under its Vision 2030 framework, Saudi Arabia is making efforts to modernize its healthcare system and localize the production of vaccines. However, Saudi Arabia needs to participate in strengthening the international legal framework in this endeavor. The extant legal agreements, like TRIPS, facilitate technology transfer; however, they also impose strict conditions on intellectual property (IP) protection. This study employs a qualitative methodology to analyze Saudi and international legal documents, agreements, and frameworks, and examines their influence on the localization of vaccine manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. The study findings indicate that there are challenges related to IP protection, international regulatory issues, and jurisdictional matters that hinder collaboration. However, Saudi Arabia can overcome them by promoting regional and multilateral agreements that can facilitate technology transfer and international collaborations. The study further indicates that to balance international commitments with national priorities, modifications to the legal framework, collaboration with other countries, and the establishment of cross-border partnerships are necessary.