Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal has announced a sweeping overhaul of the medical devices registration process, making it transparent, fully digital, and faster than ever before. Speaking at the annual general meeting of the Healthcare Devices Association of Pakistan (HDAP) in Karachi, he said the government has removed human interference from the system so that applications can now be submitted online and processed within 20 days without delays, missing files, or bribery.

He explained that under the previous system companies were forced to visit Islamabad repeatedly and often faced bureaucratic hurdles and unofficial demands. “Now you don’t have to travel or approach any officer. You just submit your request from your laptop, and the work is done in 20 days,” he told industry representatives.

Kamal emphasized that this reform is part of a wider effort to support and modernize Pakistan’s healthcare devices sector. In just six months his ministry has focused on eliminating bottlenecks and creating a level playing field for investors. “The government’s role is to facilitate growth, not to extend favors,” he said, urging manufacturers and importers to invest in research, innovation and quality so that Pakistan can reduce its dependence on imported technology and build global competitiveness.

He also reminded the audience that sustainable growth requires vision and leadership. “True leaders give direction and take people along with them,” he remarked, calling on industry leaders to adopt a long-term strategy.

The minister assured HDAP members of continued government support in regulatory facilitation, capacity-building, and standards alignment. “If you grow, it will feel like Pakistan is growing. That will mean we have fulfilled our duty,” he concluded, framing the medical devices industry as a vital engine for public health improvement and economic progress.