Mobile app launched for online registration, licensing of drugs

ISLAMABAD: In a major step to revolutionize the drug registration and licensing system in the country, federal health minister Dr Nadeem Jan on Wednesday launched a mobile application for online registration and licensing of drugs.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of the app at DRAP headquarters, the health minister said, he had directed the digitalization of drug licensing and registration. 

He said pharmaceutical companies will now be able to submit online applications for registration and license. Earlier, applicants had to visit DRAP headquarters physically to apply for registration or licensing of drugs. Registration and licensing of new multinational companies is also digitalised under the new system, he said adding that the automated system will lead to an increase in exports and enhanced confidence of international organizations in Pakistan’s medicines. With this process, the minister said the foundation of merit and transparency has been laid in DRAP. “It not only increases the efficiency of institutions increases significantly but will increase public confidence in the regulator”, he hoped. “We are vigorously pursuing the implementation of the reform agenda in the Ministry of Health, he maintained. It is worth mentioning here that a complaint app was also launched by Dr Nadeem Jan to ensure direct communication with the regulator. Chief Executive Officer of DRAP Asim Rauf and other senior officials of the drug regulatory authority were also present on the occasion.