Due to an increase in complaints regarding the spread of AIDS in Pakistan, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has banned the production, import, and sale of reusable 1cc and 10cc syringes from January 1, 2027.
According to a notification, after December 31 this year, 1cc non insulin and 10cc disposable syringes will no longer be allowed to be manufactured, imported, or sold in the country. From January 1, 2027, only auto lock or auto disable syringes, which become unusable after a single use, may be locally manufactured, imported, or used.
More than one billion syringes are used annually in Pakistan. DRAP has also made it mandatory for all hospitals and healthcare centers to maintain records of 10cc syringe supplies and provide them to the authority. The name of the local manufacturer or importing company must be clearly printed on every syringe package. Manufacturers and importers have also been directed to establish a digital portal before January 1, 2027.
DRAP made the decision on the recommendation of the Prime Minister’s Task Force, which concluded in its investigation that the reuse of syringes was a major factor contributing to the spread of infectious diseases.
