Pakistan Approves Nationwide Track and Trace System to Combat Fake Medicines

Pakistan's federal cabinet has given the green light for the nationwide implementation of a Track and Trace system for pharmaceutical products, a move aimed at bolstering public health and protecting citizens from counterfeit medicines. Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal announced the approval on Tuesday, highlighting it as a significant step towards eradicating fake and substandard drugs from the country.

“

This decision marks a major and historic step towards eliminating counterfeit, fake and substandard medicines from Pakistan.

The new system mandates the inclusion of standardized 2D barcodes and serialization data on all medicine packaging. This digital framework will allow regulators to monitor medicines from production to consumption, thereby identifying and removing counterfeit products from the market. For consumers, the system promises access to authentic information about a medicine's expiry date, price, and verification status, empowering them to make informed healthcare decisions and fostering greater trust in the pharmaceutical sector.

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) will lead the nationwide rollout and provide detailed technical guidelines to assist the pharmaceutical industry in complying with the new regulations. Consultative meetings with stakeholders have already taken place to ensure a smooth transition. Minister Kamal emphasized that this initiative will significantly enhance the security and quality of Pakistan's pharmaceutical supply chain, replacing traditional monitoring methods with a modern digital approach.

“

For the first time, every medicine in the country will be digitally traceable and verifiable, ensuring greater transparency, safety, and accountability.

Kamal stated that the adoption of this advanced technology positions Pakistan among the leading countries in the region for pharmaceutical regulation and oversight. He concluded that the Track and Trace system will establish a robust barrier against counterfeit medicines, ultimately safeguarding public health, lives, and trust.

“

The track and trace system will establish a strong and effective barrier against counterfeit medicines and ensure the protection of public health, lives and trust.