From Antibody Testing to Rapid Antigen Innovation: CHIL Among the First Global Developers

In 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, diagnostic availability was largely limited to antibody (serology) tests, primarily used to detect past exposure and support epidemiological surveillance. While valuable for understanding immune response, antibody assays were not sufficient for early-stage detection and immediate infection control.

Recognizing the urgent global need for rapid and accurate acute-phase diagnostics, CHIL immediately initiated intensive R&D efforts in April 2020 to develop SARS-CoV-2 antigen tests. Despite highly constrained conditions, including limited access to biological materials, global supply chain disruptions, and accelerated regulatory timelines, the company successfully completed validation studies and scaled production.

As a result, CHIL became one of the first five companies worldwide to develop and manufacture COVID-19 antigen tests, delivering rapid diagnostic solutions during the most critical phase of the pandemic.

Beyond its own production, CHIL also supported the broader diagnostic ecosystem by supplying raw materials and semi-finished components to other manufacturers, contributing to global testing capacity and strengthening international supply continuity.

This achievement reflects not only scientific capability but also industrial agility and global responsibility in times when diagnostics were needed most.