Last Updated on October 11, 2024 by The Health Master
Pakistan allows import of Vital Medicines from India
Amidst financial constraints, Pakistan’s Drug Regulatory Authority permits the import of crucial medications, including anti-cancer drugs and vaccines, from India for both hospitals and the general public.
This decision aims to address the scarcity of essential medicines in the country and is made possible under the Import Policy Order 2022 after obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the authority.
Direct reach to the place: How can I send medication to Pakistan?
Importing Vital Medicines from India:
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) declared that there are no limitations for hospitals or citizens to import vital medicines from India, encompassing anti-cancer drugs and vaccines.
This move is aligned with the Import Policy Order 2022 and requires the acquisition of an NOC from DRAP.
Import Policy Order 2022: The Import Policy Order, 2022 allows the import of all goods except those included in a: Banned Items List (Appendix A, Import Policy Order, 2022). Restricted items list (imports are permitted subject to certain conditions) (Appendix B, Import Policy Order, 2022)
Senatorial Discussion:
The statement from DRAP officials came forth during a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Health.
Senator Professor Mehr Taj Roghani addressed the issue of medication scarcity in the country, especially amidst its economic turmoil.
NOC Application for Essential Medicines:
DRAP officials clarified that due to the shortage of essential medicines in Pakistan, both common individuals and hospitals can apply for a No Objection Certificate to directly import medicines from India.
The Import Policy Order 2022 currently does not impose any bans on drug imports from India.
Survey of Unavailable Medicines:
In response to Senator Roghani’s concerns, DRAP officials revealed that a countrywide survey of unavailable medicines had been initiated.
Their field force across the nation was tasked with identifying essential medicines that are not accessible in healthcare facilities.
Publication of the Unavailable Medicines List:
DRAP informed the Senate Standing Committee on Health that it is working on compiling a list of unavailable medicines along with contact details.
This list will be available on DRAP’s official website and will undergo regular updates based on real-time market surveillance.
Committee for Drug Shortages:
DRAP established a committee responsible for monitoring drug shortages in the market. This committee is actively addressing the issue on a consistent basis.
Furthermore, individuals and hospitals can use an online application to obtain an NOC from DRAP for importing medicines from any country, including India, for personal use.
Amidst Tensions and Praise:
This decision by DRAP comes at a time of strained Indo-Pak relations.
Despite the geopolitical challenges, Senator Humayun Mohmand commended DRAP’s efforts to ensure medicine availability in the country.
He acknowledged that during the COVID-19 pandemic, DRAP promptly facilitated the import of essential medicines and vaccines for critically ill patients.
Economic Challenges and IMF Assistance:
Pakistan’s struggling economy has been grappling with significant challenges for years.
The country has sought financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), securing a $3 billion loan to stabilize its cash-strapped economy.
Mounting inflation has put immense pressure on the population, making it difficult for many to make ends meet.
Catastrophic Floods and Ongoing Struggles:
In addition to economic woes, Pakistan faced the devastating aftermath of last year’s catastrophic floods.
With over 1,700 lives lost and massive economic losses, the country’s challenges have multiplied.
In summary, Pakistan’s decision to allow the import of essential medicines from India seeks to alleviate the scarcity of vital drugs amidst economic hardships.
This move is facilitated by obtaining an NOC from DRAP and is regarded as a noteworthy step toward ensuring the availability of necessary medical treatments.
How can I send medication to Pakistan?
All prescribed medicines need to be registered with the Pakistan Drugs Regulatory Authority (DRA). To learn more, go to www.dra.gov.pk, the DRA website. In order to export “over-the-counter” or “non-prescription” medications, you will also need to obtain a NOC (no objection certificate) from DRA.
Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model, to rewrite and present the news / article in a unique format.
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