A delegation from the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA), led by its Chairman, met with Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan to address challenges facing the sector and to request government assistance in bolstering pharmaceutical exports.
The meeting highlighted the industry’s significant export potential, with discussions centering on strategies to increase Pakistan’s share in global pharmaceutical markets.
The Chairman of PPMA pointed out that 95 per cent of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical products are domestically manufactured, with only 5 per cent being imported. This, he noted, presents a substantial opportunity for export expansion.
Currently, Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports stand at $341 million, but with government support, the Chairman projected that this figure could reach several billion dollars.
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One key proposal during the meeting was the establishment of a Pharma Export Promotion Council, modeled after similar initiatives in neighboring countries. The council would serve as a central body to streamline the industry’s growth and innovation, improving overall performance and competitiveness in international markets.
Minister recognises export potential
Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan acknowledged the untapped potential of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the South-West Asian and Central Asian markets.
He urged the PPMA to submit a detailed proposal for export enhancement and assured the delegation that the Ministry of Commerce, through the Export Development Fund (EDF), would offer necessary support to realize the sector’s export ambitions.
