DRAP orders pharma, device importers to prioritise armed forces, public hospitals

ISLAMABAD: Amid growing security tensions and an evolving national emergency, Pakistan’s Drug Regulatory Authority (DRAP) has directed pharmaceutical companies and medical device importers to prioritise uninterrupted supply of life-saving medicines and critical medical equipment to the armed forces and public sector hospitals.

The directive was formally issued via an official communication dated May 8, 2025, and confirmed by a senior DRAP official, citing the country’s urgent healthcare needs in the current scenario.

In a move seen as a key component of Pakistan’s emergency preparedness strategy, the regulatory authority underscored that manufacturers and importers of registered drugs and devices must immediately ensure availability of essential medical supplies on a priority basis for public health institutions and military hospitals.

“This directive has been issued in view of the public interest and growing healthcare needs resulting from the regional crisis,” a DRAP official told this reporter, adding that the situation demands swift and coordinated action from the industry.

The directive was formally circulated to key stakeholders, including the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA), Pharma Bureau Karachi, Pakistan Chemist & Druggist Association, and the Healthcare Devices Association of Pakistan (HDAP).

DRAP’s letter further emphasized that this provision has been issued with the approval of the authority’s Chief Executive Officer.

In a related development, the senior DRAP official also revealed that the government has amended its licensing rules to allow a clearer regulatory framework for emergencies.

These new rules—awaiting final approval from the federal cabinet—stipulate that in any public health emergency, manufacturers and importers must first cater to the needs of the armed forces and public hospitals before engaging with private sector clients.