The Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund and Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand their collaboration in funding research and development (R&D) for infectious diseases, including malaria, tuberculosis and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

The partnership will focus on creating co-funding opportunities for projects led by Thai institutions or implemented in Thailand, while also supporting global research initiatives targeting diseases with pandemic potential. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of drugs, vaccines and diagnostics, particularly for diseases prevalent in low- and middle-income countries.

Since its establishment in 2013, the GHIT Fund has played a significant role in advancing global health R&D, investing in over 140 projects with a cumulative funding of approximately 40 billion yen. TSRI, a government agency under Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, is responsible for promoting national research policies and allocating funding to institutions in line with the country’s strategic priorities.

Under the agreement, both organisations will work to strengthen research and innovation ecosystems in Thailand and Japan. Key areas of collaboration include facilitating knowledge sharing, supporting capacity building through workshops and fostering collaborative research networks focused on infectious diseases.

The partnership is expected to unlock additional funding opportunities for Thai universities, research institutions and companies, as well as international partners conducting research activities in Thailand. It also builds on Thailand’s established expertise in infectious disease research, particularly in malaria and parasitic diseases.

By combining resources and expertise, the GHIT Fund and TSRI aim to accelerate innovation and contribute to the development of effective healthcare solutions for underserved populations globally.