International vaccine technology transfer in Mexico: capabilities and institutions

Resumen

This article examines two cases of international technology transfer for Covid-19 vaccine production in Mexico –Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca-Liomont) and Convidecia (CanSino-Drugmex)– to analyze the firm-level, institutional, and regulatory conditions that enabled participation in the fill-and-finish stages during the pandemic. It focuses on three dimensions: i) the limited yet relevant technological capabilities of national firms, ii) a weak but temporarily reconfigured policy environment for industrial and science, technology, and innovation (STI) development, and iii) exceptional regulatory flexibility that facilitated rapid implementation. Findings indicate effective downstream performance but persistent dependence on imported inputs and limited upstream capacity, which constrain long-term autonomy. The article highlights the need for sustained industrial policy, strategic public procurement, and stronger R&D linkages.