Pharmas take Poland, Hungary to court over Covid vaccine dues 

BRUSSELS: Pharmaceutical giants Pfizer and BioNTech have filed lawsuits against the governments of Poland and Hungary, claiming non-payment for Covid vaccines ordered during the pandemic, according to legal sources.

The legal action comes as European Union (EU) member countries had collectively procured vaccines through a joint purchase scheme for their respective populations.

Pfizer and BioNTech are pursuing their case through the courts in Belgium, which serves as the host country for the European Commission.

The litigation underscores the disputes arising from financial transactions related to the procurement of vaccines during the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting the legal complexities surrounding the joint purchase arrangement within the EU.

The outcome of these legal proceedings could have implications for future collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and member states in times of public health crises.