Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Cheema chaired a meeting on the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to review pending drug-pricing cases and the existing pricing formula.
Officials briefed the meeting that the case-by-case evaluation of pending drug-pricing cases is almost complete. Senator Ahad Cheema appreciated the progress and asked the relevant officials to take the cases forward for further processing. He also recognised the efforts of Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik and DRAP officials in completing the evaluation.
The meeting was told that the trivalent flu vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) is available in sufficient quantities in the market. DRAP has withdrawn the hardship case concerning the vaccine, as its prices are controlled in the international market.
Officials also shared that DRAP is reviewing the existing drug-pricing formula and examining provisions that may hinder the determination of fair and accurate prices.
Senator Ahad Cheema asked DRAP to consider purchasing subscriptions to databases specialising in drug pricing to support more independent price assessments. He emphasised that facilitating the public is a top priority and that price increases without valid justification are unacceptable.
The Minister observed that comparisons with other countries can provide useful benchmarks, while underscoring the need for independent checks and balances. He stressed that the pricing formula should be people-centred and should not create unnecessary hurdles for importers or the pharmaceutical sector.
Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik, Secretary Health Momin Agha, CEO DRAP Dr. Obaidullah and other senior officials attended the meeting.
