The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C) has officially announced a landmark achievement for Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure. The Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL), Karachi, a Statutory Laboratory of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), has successfully achieved World Health Organization (WHO) Prequalification, elevating Pakistan's pharmaceutical testing capabilities to the highest international standards.
This certification signifies that DRAP’s testing services meet the rigorous global benchmarks established by the WHO, ensuring that the Therapeutic Goods tested within the facility are safe, effective, and of high quality.
The Federal Minister for National Health Services, Syed Mustafa Kamal, congratulated the leadership of DRAP and the Technical team at CDL, Karachi for their dedication to regulatory excellence. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized that this achievement is a cornerstone of the government’s broader health reforms.
"The WHO Prequalification of CDL Karachi is a historic moment for the people of Pakistan," stated Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal. "Our government is committed to a fundamental shift from a 'sick-care' system to a true 'health-care' system that prioritizes prevention and quality. Ensuring that every medicine tested in our national labs meets global standards is the first line of defense in protecting the lives of our citizens."
The Minister further noted that this milestone is critical for the national economy and the "Made in Pakistan" brand:
"By achieving this international validation, we are not only safeguarding public health but also empowering our pharmaceutical industry to compete globally. This will foster immense trust among healthcare providers and patients alike, ensuring that no matter where you are in Pakistan, the medicine you receive is a product of world-class integrity."
The Ministry of NHSR&C remains focused on modernizing the National Regulatory System to protect patients from substandard and falsified medicines. The Secretary of Health added that the Ministry will continue to support DRAP’s journey toward WHO global Benchmarking of National Regulatory System, ensuring Pakistan remains a leader in regional health regulation.
This success marks a significant step forward in the government’s mission to provide equitable access to safe and high-quality healthcare for all Pakistanis.
