Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla Opposes Waiving COVID-19 Vaccine Intellectual Property Rights

On May 8, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla stated in an open letter to company employees that he firmly opposes the decision to waive vaccine intellectual property rights. He noted that Pfizer has invested substantial human and material resources in vaccine development, and that waiving intellectual property rights would raise concerns among investors and “disrupt the supply of raw materials for vaccines.”

The reasons for opposition can be summarized into several points. For instance, some inexperienced institutions may appropriate critical raw materials for vaccine production, thereby hindering Pfizer’s capacity expansion. Additionally, given that Pfizer has already invested $2 billion in vaccine research and development, the entry of smaller manufacturers in the future could undermine returns on investment due to inadequate intellectual property protection.