Pfizer/BioNTech and EU to reschedule COVID vaccine deliveries to 2024: FT
carmengabriela/iStock Editorial via Getty Images

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE)/BioNTech (BNTX) and EU member states are close to strike a deal to delay COVID-19 vaccine shipments into 2024 as the region grapples with an abundance of shots, The Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
According to the plan, which is said to have tentative support from the European Commission and the companies, the vaccine deliveries will be split between 2023 and 2024.
The current agreement between the EU and Pfizer (PFE)/BioNTech (BNTX) for 1.8B doses of the companiesâ mRNA-based shot extends only until 2023.
No final decision had not yet been made, three of the people said, while two sources noted that there was a broad consensus among member states for the arrangement.
The commission declined to comment, but added it closely followed the situation and pointed to previous amendments to existing contracts. âWe continue to monitor the situation and the commission stands ready to offer support where needed,â it said, according to FT.
Meanwhile, the rival mRNA vaccine maker, Moderna (MRNA) also has an agreement with the EU, which is set to end later this year. Last month, the company said that certain shipments pertaining to the contract could be delayed to early 2023.
However, according to people familiar with the EUâs procurements, it was âmore likelyâ that the regional body would have to sign a new contract with the company. Moderna (MRNA) refused to comment.
In May, Pfizer (PFE)/BioNTech (BNTX) said it agreed with the European Commission to delay vaccine shipments scheduled for June â August 2022 to September through 4Q 2022.