The Ministry of Health in Pakistan has launched a major initiative to reduce the country’s dependence on imported vaccines. The government has begun developing the nation’s first local vaccine policy in collaboration with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
The policy aims to strengthen domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity and will be presented to the federal cabinet for final approval. Once approved, it will provide a clear framework for vaccine production within Pakistan.
Domestic Production Goals
Under the proposed policy, the government plans to locally produce 13 vaccines over the next five years. Currently, most vaccines are imported from China, Europe, Indonesia, and other countries.
The new policy is designed to encourage local manufacturers by offering regulatory clarity and long-term production targets. At present, only a few vaccines and sera are produced domestically. These include anti-rabies and tetanus vaccines, as well as anti-snake venom serum, mainly produced at the National Institute of Health.
Economic and Health Benefits
Pakistan spends millions of dollars every year importing vaccines for the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). Experts warn that if local production is not expanded, annual spending on imports could exceed one billion dollars by 2030.
Health officials say local production could save around one billion dollars in foreign exchange. Reducing dependence on imports would also improve supply security and strengthen Pakistan’s health system.
The initiative reflects a broader government effort to promote self-reliance in critical healthcare sectors. Officials emphasize that expanding local vaccine production will ensure a steady supply for immunization programs and enhance the country’s capacity to respond to public health emergencies.
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By encouraging domestic vaccine production, Pakistan aims to reduce import reliance, save foreign exchange, and build a stronger, more self-sufficient healthcare system.
