In an effort to maintain a steady supply of paracetamol in the nation, the government is looking into the prospect of eliminating customs and taxes on active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Recently, the nation had a paracetamol scarcity that had an impact on residents of flood-affected areas.
Following the medication scarcity, the pharma authorities also conducted various raids to prevent product hoarding.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) was also given instructions by the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Health Services (NHS) to guarantee a continuous supply of paracetamol in the nation to suit domestic demands.
The cabinet members had all voiced their opposition to raising prescription prices during the meeting. Regarding the lack of Panadol on the market, the health ministry informed the cabinet that a committee had been formed to make recommendations for ways to ensure paracetamol supply without raising prices.
It further stated that the elimination of customs and taxes on paracetamol APIs was being investigated.
The issue of approving an increase in the maximum retail prices (MRPs) for 10 medications in the health hardship category had been brought up by the relevant ministry.
Mahnur is MS(development Studies)Student at NUST University, completed BS Hons in Eng Literature. Content Writer, Policy analyst, Climate Change specialist, Teacher, HR Recruiter.
