PPMA Urges Immediate Reforms in Outdated Drug Laws

The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) has raised concerns over the outdated drug laws in the country, emphasizing the need for immediate reforms to align with global standards. The chairman of PPMA, Mian Khalid Misbah, highlighted the challenges faced by the local pharmaceutical industry, including high input costs, inflation, and regulatory burdens leading to the closure of local companies and diminishing presence of multinational corporations.

Misbah pointed out the success stories of neighboring countries like India and Bangladesh, where streamlined drug regulations have led to better availability of medicines at competitive prices and significant export earnings. He urged the government to intervene promptly to prevent further deterioration of the industry and ensure access to affordable healthcare for the population.

While acknowledging the recent deregulation of non-essential drug prices as a positive step, the PPMA chief stressed the importance of expediting the pricing mechanism for essential drugs to avoid shortages and prevent the influx of counterfeit products into the market. Delays in price revisions have resulted in exorbitant costs for vital medications, putting patients at risk.

In conclusion, the pharmaceutical sector in Pakistan faces critical challenges that require immediate attention from policymakers to safeguard the interests of both the industry and the public. By modernizing drug laws and fostering a conducive regulatory environment, Pakistan can enhance its competitiveness in the global pharmaceutical market and ensure the availability of quality medicines at affordable prices.