The plant will ensure self-sufficiency for vaccine production for Hungarians and for the Carpathian Basin from the end of 2022, György said.

He noted that the global market for vaccines was worth an annual USD 50 billion before the coronavirus pandemic but could reach USD 95 bln within three years, adding that vaccine exports could benefit Hungary as could the intensive degree of research and development in the sector.

Hungary's government has earmarked HUF 55 bln for the construction of the national vaccine plant.