Pakistan Accelerates Medical Collaboration with China Amid Hepatitis Delta Surge

Pakistan’s health ministry has announced plans to fast-track regulatory approvals for Phase III clinical trials of a new hepatitis delta treatment, as the country faces a growing public health challenge.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal, with representatives from Chinese pharmaceutical firm Huahui Health. The company presented details of its therapy, HH-003, which has already completed successful Phase II trials internationally and is approved in China for safety and effectiveness.

Hepatitis delta is considered one of the most dangerous liver viruses, as it only affects individuals already living with hepatitis B. Minister Kamal emphasized that more than one million Pakistanis are impacted, with delayed diagnosis and treatment often leading to severe complications, including liver cancer.

Officials estimate that nearly 20% of hepatitis B patients in Pakistan may also carry hepatitis delta. However, limited access to routine testing has slowed early detection, leaving many patients vulnerable to advanced stages of the disease.

To address this, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan will oversee a transparent approval process, ensuring international scientific standards are met. The government is committed to making the medicine affordable and accessible, prioritizing patient safety and quality.

The partnership with Huahui Health also includes plans to collaborate with local pharmaceutical companies. This initiative aims to support domestic production of advanced biological medicines and facilitate technology transfer, strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure.

By accelerating clinical trials and fostering international collaboration, Pakistan hopes to deliver life-saving treatments to patients quickly. The move reflects a broader strategy to confront rising hepatitis delta cases and safeguard public health through innovation and global partnerships.