Islamabad — In a decisive move to eliminate the growing menace of counterfeit medicines in the country, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the deployment of cutting-edge technology to overhaul Pakistan’s pharmaceutical oversight systems.

Chairing a high-level meeting on the Ministry of National Health in Islamabad, the Prime Minister directed that all concerned authorities take swift measures to digitally transform the drug registration process and ensure zero tolerance for spurious medicines in the market.

“The complete elimination of counterfeit medicines is non-negotiable. We must use modern technology to protect the health and trust of our citizens,” said Shehbaz Sharif.

He also emphasized the importance of World Health Organization (WHO) accreditation for Pakistani pharmaceutical companies. Such accreditation, he said, would not only raise the global standing of locally produced medicines but also unlock new avenues for pharmaceutical exports.

Roadmap for Health Sector Reforms

In his address, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry to submit a roadmap for collaboration between private healthcare providers and welfare organizations to improve medical services in Islamabad.

“The provision of world-class medical facilities to every citizen is a top priority of our government,” he stated.

Highlighting the importance of education in shaping the future of healthcare, Shehbaz Sharif ordered third-party validation of medical colleges across the country. He stressed that no political interference will be allowed in the ongoing reforms and that quality education must not be compromised.

Key Updates from the Meeting:

  • The registration of medicines and medical equipment will be fully digitalized by the end of next month.
  • New Basic Health Units, Regional Blood Centers, and the Isolation Hospital and Infectious Treatment Center (IHITC) in Islamabad will be brought into the mainstream system, with support from the philanthropic sector.
  • Obstacles hindering progress in the health sector were discussed, and long-term policy recommendations were presented to the Prime Minister.

By embracing digital transformation and international standards, the government aims to position Pakistan’s healthcare sector on a more robust, transparent, and globally competitive path.