THIS refers to Dr Laik Ali’s letter ‘Punjab Drug Control Authority’.

Through the Drugs Act 1976, the federal government governed the pharmaceutical industry with reference to functioning of licensing, drugs registration, quality, imports, exports, etc., while functioning of sales (licensing of wholesale and retail pharmacies, storage, transportation, etc) was governed by provincial governments. After devolution through the 18th amendment in 2010, the Drugs Regulatory Authority Act 2012 (DRAP) was promulgated to continue the same practice.

Pakistan was one of the first countries in the region to adopt such a comprehensive legislation (in India it was left to the states) and lead the way, which is now followed by all regional countries, including India.

Now we want to change the goals again. Already many major multi-national corporations which were here for decades have left Pakistan. Many others are in the process of packing up. Our prime minister is looking for foreign investments and here we are throwing them out. National industries are in no better shape and it is evident that a couple of 100 units will collapse within the next two years.

Due to policies inconsistent with international practices patients will suffer as the entry of innovative drugs in the market will be delayed, while essential drugs will keep on disappearing.

The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) has proposed to follow the Pharmaceutical Inspections Convention Scheme (PICS), which is endorsed by the USFDA, EU, WHO, etc. It is a globally-accepted system which will not only enhance the quality and availability of drugs for our people but will also lay the basis to align our exports with the developed world.

Zahid Saeed

Chairman, FPCCI Committee on Pharmaceuticals

Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 24th, 2017