Pfizer and BioNTech are suing Romania in court for 29 million unaccepted COVID-19 vaccine doses, seeking compensation of over 564 million euros.

At the Francophone Court of First Instance in Brussels, the trial initiated by Pfizer and BioNTech against Romania begins on January 21, 2026. The pharmaceutical companies are seeking compensation from the Romanian state for approximately 29 million doses of the anti-COVID-19 vaccine that were not accepted in 2023, totaling over 564 million euros, plus interest and legal costs. Romania decided not to accept these additional doses, a decision made by the former Minister of Health, Alexandru Rafila.

The trial will be heard simultaneously with that of Poland, which invoked the force majeure clause due to the war in Ukraine. Pfizer is also requesting that Romania bear all costs related to the procedure, including legal expenses. The Ministry of Finance has appointed the law firms SCA Stănescu Vasile and Asociații and Strelia CVBA to represent Romania in this litigation, which will take place over six days in Brussels.