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The Argentine animal health company Biogénesis Bagó has abruptly ended its contract with local animal vaccine supplier, Design Biologix, allegedly following a meeting between the Argentine company and the National Department of Agriculture (NDA).
An e-mail to end it all
In a cover letter sent to Design Biologix director and CEO, Karen Nel on Monday, Sebastian Perretta, business executive director of Biogénesis Bagó SA, explains the reason why Biogénesis Bagó SA revoked the letter of authorisation giving Design Biologix the sole right to import their foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine.
In the letter, Perretta says:
“Dear Karen, I hope this message finds you well. As we discussed over the phone, following our meeting with the minister and several of their officials on Thursday, January 22nd, it has been clearly communicated to us that they prefer we work directly without intermediaries, and that Design Biologix should not act as an agent. Consequently, we formally revoke the letter of authorisation previously signed.
“We sincerely appreciate all your collaboration and efforts during these days and do not dismiss the possibility of potential future collaborations in the private market.”
Nel confirmed to Plaas Media that this letter was sent to her. “We wish the government, every farmer, feedlot, and dairy the very best in obtaining vaccines as quickly as possible to bring this ruinous disease under control. As always, our aim is to serve the animal health industry to the best of our ability to keep the national herd healthy.”
Government’s response
In response to a Plaas Media’s query, Joylene van Wyk, spokesperson of the NDA, said the department would like to clarify its position, stating that during the meeting with Biogénesis Bagó, the minister and department noted the appointment of Design Biologix as the designated agent. They indicated that they have no objection to the South African company’s role in importing the vaccine. They furthermore indicated that the Dollvet vaccine sourced from Turkey also utilises an agency model.
“At no point during the meeting was it suggested that there is a preference for the department to source vaccines directly. Our priority is the immediate and consistent arrival of vaccines. A steady supply is the cornerstone of our national herd vaccination strategy, which is critical to gaining control over the current FMD outbreak and ensuring long-term biosecurity.” – Izak Hofmeyr, Plaas Media
