A significant increase has been recorded in the exports of medicines and medical devices from Pakistan.
According to figures released by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, exports of pharmaceuticals and medical devices have increased by 34 percent, which is being termed a positive development for the national economy.
DRAP stated that through an effective regulatory system and reforms, savings worth billions of rupees have been made possible, the direct benefit of which has reached the public. The authority has digitized nearly 70 percent of its regulatory affairs and has set a target of 100 percent digitization by March 2026.
Measures such as the online medical devices registration system and e office have significantly reduced human errors and delays, while also promoting transparency in the system.
According to the report, the duration for issuance of certifications to promote exports has been significantly reduced. The export registration period for medicines has been reduced from 60 days to 10 days, while certificates such as FSC and CoPP are now being issued within just 5 days instead of 30 days.
The registration period for medical devices has also been reduced to around 20 days. Efforts are underway to make Pakistan self sufficient in the pharmaceutical sector through one window facilities and investment incentives.
According to DRAP, the draft national vaccine policy has been prepared, while work is also underway on a roadmap for local production of APIs. Expressing satisfaction over the positive results of reforms, the authority said that the 34 percent increase in pharmaceutical exports is an encouraging development for the national economy.
