The goal of eliminating fake and substandard medicines from the country is moving closer to becoming a reality.
According to DRAP sources, a decision has been made to implement the Pharma Track and Trace System across the country during the current year. Under this system, a deadline of October 9 has been set for the implementation of a barcode system on medicine packages.
Sources said that formal instructions regarding barcoding and serialization have been issued to pharmaceutical companies nationwide. The Track and Trace System will apply to all companies manufacturing human and veterinary medicines.
The responsibility for implementing the system across the country has been assigned to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). The use of barcodes on medicine packages has been made mandatory for pharmaceutical manufacturers and importers, while companies will be required to include 2D barcodes and serialization data on medicine packs.
According to sources, DRAP has sent official communications to PPMA, PVPA, and Pharma Bureau in this regard, while the Pakistan Chemist and Druggist Association has also been informed. Similarly, letters have been issued to provincial Directors General Drug Control and Chief Drug Inspectors.
The communication directs pharmaceutical companies to complete all arrangements for implementing the Track and Trace System before October 9. Printing 2D barcodes on medicine packages has been made mandatory for all companies.
The federal cabinet has already formally approved the implementation of the Track and Trace System, while amendments to the Drug Labeling and Packing Rules 1978 have also been approved.
According to sources, consumers will be able to verify medicines themselves through the 2D barcode printed on the packaging. Under this system, citizens will be able to digitally check medicines, while the barcode system will help identify and eliminate fake and substandard drugs.
In addition, it will be possible to verify authentic information regarding a medicine’s expiry date, usage, and price. DRAP has also completed consultations with relevant stakeholders regarding the system.
