ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has exported nearly 1,700 metric tons of homeopathic medicines over the past five years, generating US$5.23 million in revenue and strengthening its position in the rapidly expanding global alternative medicine market.
According to consolidated five-year data (2020–21 to 2024–25) released by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C), Pakistan exported 1,696.27 metric tons of homeopathic products to 26 countries, reflecting steady international demand for natural and holistic treatment options.
Key export destinations, performance trends
Sudan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan emerged as the largest importers of Pakistani homeopathic medicines over the five-year period.
Top importing countries (2020–21 to 2024–25):
- Sudan: 274.96 MT
- Bangladesh: 158.87 MT
- Afghanistan: 157.96 MT
Other export markets include the United States, Tajikistan, Kenya, Yemen, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, South Africa, New Zealand, China, the United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, and several African and Asian countries.
Year-wise export quantities
- 2020–21: 238.99 MT
- 2021–22: 165.93 MT
- 2022–23: 229.40 MT
- 2023–24: 284.00 MT
- 2024–25: 777.95 MT
Year-wise export revenue
- 2020–21: US$0.86 million
- 2021–22: US$0.91 million
- 2022–23: US$0.99 million
- 2023–24: US$0.87 million
- 2024–25: US$1.60 million
The sharp rise in 2024–25 highlights Pakistan’s improving market penetration and the rising global preference for alternative health products.
Pakistan’s homeopathic imports significantly higher
Despite growing exports, Pakistan also imported 7,611.40 MT of homeopathic medicines worth usd21.28 million from seven major regions, including Germany, France, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, and Spain.
The highest import volume came from Germany in 2024–25, with 248.9 MT costing usd5.18 million, underscoring the continued domestic reliance on imported formulations and branded homeopathic products.
Health experts highlight the benefits, rising demand
Health experts note that homeopathic medicines are valued for their individualized, natural, and gentle treatment approach. Speaking with Wealth Pakistan, health expert Muhammad Mahar emphasized that homeopathy treats the whole person — addressing physical, emotional, and mental symptoms.
He explained that homeopathy is widely used to manage chronic illnesses, allergies, digestive conditions, and stress-related disorders, adding that its appeal lies in its non-invasive, safe, and age-friendly nature. However, effectiveness varies based on individual conditions and treatment accuracy.
Economic impact, strategic importance for Pakistan
According to Mahar, the export of homeopathic medicines holds strong economic potential:
- Increases foreign exchange earnings
- Expands revenue and profit opportunities for manufacturers
- Creates jobs in manufacturing, research, logistics, and marketing
- Strengthens Pakistan’s global presence in the natural healthcare sector
- Opens opportunities for international collaboration, investment, and knowledge exchange
He added that beyond economic gains, the global distribution of homeopathic medicines supports public health by improving access to natural treatment options in regions where holistic wellness trends are rapidly growing.
