In a significant move to enhance Pakistan’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sector, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the establishment of an internationally recognized drug testing laboratory in the federal capital. The initiative aims to ensure global quality standards for medicines in the country and boost public confidence in the pharmaceutical sector.

Key Directives for Healthcare Improvements

During a high-level meeting on pharmaceutical sector reforms, PM Sharif also instructed the launch of mobile hospitals to provide healthcare services in remote regions, including Islamabad’s outskirts, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and Balochistan.

Additionally, he ordered a nationwide crackdown against counterfeit medicines in coordination with provincial governments. Stressing the importance of patient safety, he stated that fraudulent actors in the pharmaceutical sector must be held accountable.

Strengthening Drug Regulations & DRAP Reforms

PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for a comprehensive pharmaceutical policy in collaboration with provincial governments. He called for immediate action against individuals within the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) who facilitate counterfeiting and emphasized transparency in the appointment of experts to the DRAP Policy Board.

To further strengthen regulations, he directed authorities to prioritize reforms in the Drug Pricing Committee to ensure fair pricing and accessibility of medicines.

Boosting Medicine Exports & Research

The prime minister highlighted the importance of increasing Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports, which currently stand at $500 million. To achieve this, he instructed authorities to prioritize research in the pharmaceutical sector and expedite the establishment of an Export Directorate within DRAP.

Additionally, he reviewed the Ministry of Health’s steps to align Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry with global standards, including the development of a National Medicines Policy, which is nearing finalization.

Ensuring Transparency in Drug Inspector Appointments

The meeting also discussed progress in recruiting 94 new drug inspectors, with a performance review of the existing 25 inspectors underway. PM Sharif emphasized maintaining transparency in the hiring process to uphold regulatory integrity.

Advancing Healthcare for a Stronger Future

By prioritizing pharmaceutical reforms and healthcare accessibility, PM Shehbaz Sharif aims to make Pakistan’s healthcare system more robust and aligned with international benchmarks. His directives are expected to enhance medicine quality, eliminate counterfeit drugs, and strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical exports.