PCDA, PPMA excluded from Sindh Quality Control Board meeting

Two key stakeholders in Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector—the Pakistan Chemists & Druggists Association (PCDA) and the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA)—have been excluded from an upcoming meeting of the Sindh Quality Control Board (SCQB), prompting concern over transparency and regulatory fairness.

In a formal letter to the Sindh Health Department, PCDA Secretary General M. Asim Jamil expressed dismay that the association, despite being the only registered trade body representing chemists, druggists, importers, and distributors, was not invited to participate in the Board’s scheduled meeting.

He stressed that under the Sindh Drug Rules, relevant trade bodies must be consulted in matters related to pharmaceutical regulation. “It has come to our attention that meetings of the SCQB are being scheduled, but PCDA has not been invited despite being a key stakeholder,” the letter read. “This raises concerns regarding transparency and fairness in the Board’s decision-making.”

The PCDA also noted that the PPMA, which represents local drug manufacturers, had similarly been excluded from attending as an observer, further compounding industry apprehensions about the lack of representation in regulatory proceedings that directly impact their operations.

Calling for immediate rectification, the PCDA urged the health secretary to ensure the inclusion of both associations in future SCQB meetings to uphold fair practices and regulatory clarity. A copy of the letter was also sent to the chief drug inspector of Sindh.