Pakistan is set to begin local production of insulin in collaboration with Russia.
A meeting of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Special Assistant on Finance, Haroon Akhtar, where the plan for local production of insulin was discussed in detail.
Haroon Akhtar described Pakistan’s decision to take this step with Russia as “the foundation of a new era,” stating that investment and technology transfer will be at the core of the joint venture.
He further said that the project would not only improve patients’ access to insulin but also create new opportunities for business and scientific cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
He revealed that insulin would be produced in phases in Pakistan, with large scale production expected to begin within the next three years.
Haroon Akhtar also stated that the agreement includes comprehensive technology transfer, which will enable the gradual development of local expertise in insulin manufacturing.
He added that the partnership reflects Pakistan’s commitment to self reliance in essential medicines while opening the door to broader economic relations with Russia.
Officials stressed that pharmaceutical companies must comply with strict regulatory requirements to ensure the success and sustainability of this initiative.
The project is expected to not only improve the availability of insulin for millions of diabetic patients but also promote research opportunities, business collaboration, and investment in the pharmaceutical sector.
