Post by CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations)

Strong and aligned regulatory systems are central to enabling faster, safer access to vaccines in future outbreaks. That’s why CEPI has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with Colombia’s Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos (Invima Colombia), marking CEPI’s first such collaboration with a National Regulatory Authority in Latin America. The agreement establishes a foundation to deepen collaboration on regulatory pandemic preparedness, with a focus on strengthening regulatory practices, post-approval surveillance, and evidence generation to support more efficient evaluation and deployment of vaccines during public health emergencies. Building on recent joint work, including a tabletop exercise designed to simulate outbreak scenarios and test regulatory decision-making in real time, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to applying lessons from COVID-19 and strengthening readiness for future health emergencies. The agreement was formally signed by Dr Francisco Rossi (General Director of INVIMA) and CEPI's Adam Hacker, symbolising a shared commitment to collaboration and preparedness. By working together, CEPI and INVIMA aim to enhance the systems needed to enable faster, more equitable access to vaccines when they are needed most.  This milestone was made possible thanks to the vision of Dr Francisco Rossi and the dedication of INVIMA’s international affairs team, who coordinated and supported this effort. CEPI is grateful for their openness and commitment to collaboration in building a more prepared world.