ISLAMABAD: Dr Nadeem Jan, the Caretaker Minister for National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing key issues being faced by the pharmaceutical industry to enhance its capabilities and export potential.
During a meeting with a delegation from the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), led by President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, Dr Jan emphasised the crucial role played by the pharmaceutical sector in meeting the growing demand for medicines and bolstering exports.
The minister elaborated the government's plans to establish a state-of-the-art pharma park through a public-private partnership, along with proposed incentives for local production of pharmaceutical raw materials. He also underlined ongoing efforts to secure technology transfers in the pharmaceutical sector through collaboration with other countries.
He also outlined the government's vision to digitize the national healthcare system to align with contemporary trends, with a particular focus on strengthening the country's health infrastructure through technology transfer initiatives.
The minister also informed the ICCI delegation about the upcoming Global Health Security Summit in Pakistan and assured the delegation that their concerns would be given due consideration.
Mr Bakhtawari drew the minister's attention to critical issues faced by the pharmaceutical industry, including the heavy reliance on imported raw materials, resulting in amplified production costs due to currency fluctuations.
He urged the government to encourage local production of active pharmaceutical ingredients, aiming to reduce the manufacturing expenses and enhance the industry's competitiveness in the global export market.
Faad Waheed, Senior Vice President of ICCI, emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between industry players and regulatory authorities to position Pakistan as a prominent contender in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
The ICCI delegation also included former president Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General UBG, Dr Joharia Azhar, Faseeh Ullah Khan, and Zia Khalid Chaudhry.
