India delays big exports of AstraZeneca vaccine as Covid-19 cases surge

India is, however, not officially banning Covid-19 vaccine exports. "This is a temporary move until the supply situation stabilises in the country," said a person close to the development

India has put a temporary hold on all major exports of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine made by Serum Institute of India (SII), the world’s biggest vaccine-maker, to meet domestic demand as infections rise, multiple sources confirmed.

A person close to the development said that in the light of rising demand for Covid-19 vaccines, the health ministry has conveyed to SII that it should prioritise deliveries to the government of India over export commitments. The entire production of 60 million doses in April will be supplied to the government.

India is, however, not officially banning Covid-19 vaccine exports. “This is a temporary move