Pakistan Launches Emergency Plan to Address Pharmaceutical Shortages Amid India Trade Suspension

In the wake of the recent suspension of trade ties with India, Pakistani health authorities have activated an emergency preparedness plan to mitigate potential pharmaceutical shortages. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) is exploring alternative sources for essential medical supplies, including Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), from countries such as China, Russia, and various European nations.​

Reliance on Indian Pharmaceutical Imports

Pakistan currently depends on India for approximately 30% to 40% of its pharmaceutical raw materials and finished products, including critical items like anti-rabies vaccines, anti-snake venom, cancer therapies, and monoclonal antibodies. The abrupt trade halt has raised concerns about potential disruptions in the supply chain, prompting immediate action from health authorities.​

Industry Appeals for Exemptions

The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) has engaged with DRAP and the Ministry of Commerce, advocating for exemptions to the trade ban for life-saving medical imports. The PPMA emphasizes the urgency of maintaining access to essential medicines to safeguard public health.

Addressing Black Market Risks

The disruption in legal pharmaceutical imports has also highlighted the risks associated with the black market, where unregistered and unapproved medicines—often of Indian origin—are smuggled into Pakistan through various channels. These unauthorized sources pose significant quality and safety concerns.​

Calls for Domestic Production Enhancement

Health experts view the current crisis as an impetus for Pakistan to invest in domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities. Institutions like the Dow University of Health Sciences in Karachi have initiated the production of anti-rabies vaccines using Chinese raw materials and are developing anti-snake venom solutions. There are also calls to upgrade the National Institute of Health in Islamabad to bolster the country’s capacity to produce vaccines and other critical biological products.​

As Pakistan navigates the challenges posed by the trade suspension with India, the implementation of this emergency plan and the pursuit of alternative supply sources are crucial steps toward ensuring the uninterrupted availability of essential medicines for its population.