Medicine supply remains steady across Pakistan despite global pressures
Pakistani Health Minister Mustafa Kamal announced on Tuesday that Pakistan possesses sufficient medicine stock to satisfy its needs for the next five to six months despite difficulties with global supplies. The announcement was made during a meeting he chaired in Islamabad regarding the country’s supply chain in the presence of Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan officials and representatives from the pharmaceutical sector.
Pharmaceutical industry and regulators maintain supply chain stability
Moreover, representatives from the pharmaceuticals and medical devices sector were present at the meeting, as well as the CEO of DRAP, Dr Obaidullah Malik. The discussion focused on the availability of helium gas required for functioning of the MRI machine.
According to the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, the industry was bearing all the expenses related to fuel and logistics cost hikes.
In addition, the organization also pointed out that there is adequate stock of raw materials and packaging available to the local manufacturers. The organization further noted that 85 percent of drugs being consumed in Pakistan are manufactured locally. This shields them from any foreign supply disruptions.
Before this, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan denied any claims of drug price hikes, stating that prices have remained constant.
Lasrlt, coordination among the government, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders is still ensuring the consistent availability of critical medicines.
