The federal cabinet has approved a nationwide system for medicines. The new plan focuses on Digital Verification to stop fake and substandard drugs in the market.
This initiative introduces a full track and trace system across Pakistan. It aims to improve safety in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Officials say it will protect patients from counterfeit medicines.
Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal announced the decision. He said the system will bring major reform in drug monitoring. He called it a landmark step for public health.
The cabinet also approved changes to the Drug Labelling and Packing Rules 1978. These amendments will support the rollout of Digital Verification tools across the country.
Under the new system, every medicine will be tracked digitally. This will happen throughout manufacturing and distribution stages. It will allow authorities to detect fake drugs more quickly.
Pharmaceutical companies will now be required to update packaging standards. They must print 2D barcodes on all medicine packs. Serialisation data will also be included on each product.
Consumers will also benefit from Digital Verification features. They will be able to check expiry dates and prices easily. This will be done using scanning tools or mobile systems.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) will supervise the entire system. It will issue technical guidelines for manufacturers and importers. It will also ensure compliance across the industry.
Officials said the system will increase transparency in the drug supply chain. It will also align Pakistan with international pharmaceutical safety standards.
The health minister said Digital Verification will modernize the country’s drug control system. He added that it will improve trust in medicines available in the market.
He further noted that consultations with industry stakeholders have already taken place. These discussions were aimed at ensuring smooth implementation of the system.
Authorities believe the track and trace system will reduce counterfeit medicines significantly. It will also strengthen public health protection nationwide.
The government expects the system to create a strong monitoring framework. It will improve accountability in pharmaceutical production and distribution.
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With the introduction of Digital Verification, Pakistan aims to build a safer and more reliable healthcare system. Officials say the reform will benefit both patients and the medical industry in the long term.
