Pakistan Nears WHO Level 3 Pharma Certification

Pakistan’s Pharma Industry Eyes Global Expansion

Pakistan is making significant strides in the pharmaceutical sector, with the country now close to achieving World Health Organization (WHO) Level 3 certification. This achievement will allow local pharmaceutical firms to expand exports from the current 51 countries to more than 150 international markets.

Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal announced that the certification is expected within the coming months. He emphasized that this milestone will transform Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry, opening doors to regulated high-end markets such as the United States, Europe, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The announcement came during a conference in Islamabad where Pakistan and China signed 10 pharmaceutical MoUs. These agreements focus on local API manufacturing, vaccine production, technology transfer, and investment attraction, further strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure.

The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) reported that eight local firms have already earned prestigious international recognition, including WHO prequalification, PIC/S recognition, and MHRA accreditation. These certifications validate the quality of Pakistan’s medicines and enhance credibility in global markets.

Industry experts predict that another 10 to 15 companies will secure similar certifications within the next two years. This will accelerate Pakistan’s integration into international pharmaceutical supply chains and boost confidence among foreign investors.

Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports have already shown remarkable progress. In the fiscal year ending June 2025, exports grew by 34%, reaching $457 million. This surge marked the highest growth in two decades and placed pharmaceuticals among the top five fastest-growing export categories in the country.

Former PPMA chairman Tauqeer Ul Haq highlighted that the sector’s rapid growth is a result of consistent efforts to meet global standards. He noted that Pakistan’s pharma industry is now positioned to compete with established players in the international market.

With WHO Level 3 certification on the horizon, Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector is set to enter a new era of global competitiveness, healthcare innovation, and economic resilience. This milestone not only strengthens the country’s healthcare system but also enhances its role as a rising hub for pharmaceutical exports in the region.