Punjab’s New Regulatory Powers to Combat Counterfeit and Unsafe Products

The Punjab Assembly has taken a decisive step toward strengthening public health and consumer safety by approving the Punjab Agriculture, Food and Drug Authority (Amendment) Bill 2025. The legislation, cleared by the Standing Committee on Home Affairs, significantly expands the authority’s scope and enforcement powers.

Under the new amendments, the regulator’s mandate now covers a wide range of sectors beyond food and drugs. This includes cosmetics, biomedical devices, alternative and biological medicines, orthopaedic implants, animal feed, soil quality, and water contamination. By broadening its jurisdiction, the authority aims to address risks that affect not only human health but also animal welfare and environmental safety.

To ensure effective oversight, the bill introduces clear legal definitions for these categories, reducing ambiguity and strengthening enforcement. The authority will also be empowered to conduct forensic testing, accredit laboratories, procure advanced scientific equipment, and issue expert opinions across its expanded portfolio.

Another key provision authorizes systematic sampling from manufacturers, importers, exporters, wholesalers, and retailers, enabling regulators to detect and act against contamination, adulteration, and counterfeit products more efficiently.

The governance structure of the authority has also been redefined. The Home Department Secretary will now serve as a member of the authority, signaling a stronger enforcement-oriented approach and closer alignment with law and order priorities.

According to the statement of objects, the amendment is designed to curb the growing menace of fake, substandard, and unsafe products in Punjab’s agriculture, food, and healthcare sectors. It also emphasizes improved regulatory control over environmental factors such as soil and water quality, which are critical for sustainable development.

This legislative move reflects Punjab’s commitment to modernizing its regulatory framework and protecting citizens from health hazards. By equipping the authority with broader powers and advanced tools, the province aims to build a safer, more transparent system that safeguards both public health and the environment.