The federal cabinet has approved a nationwide Track and Trace system for pharmaceutical products across Pakistan. Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal shared the update on Tuesday. According to an official handout, the system is designed to strengthen public health. It also aims to protect citizens from counterfeit and substandard medicines. This move is part of wider efforts to improve drug safety and transparency in the country.
The cabinet has also approved amendments to the Drug Labeling and Packing Rules. These changes will support a modern digital framework. This system will track and verify medicines throughout the entire supply chain.
Minister Mustafa Kamal said the decision marks a historic step. He said it will help eliminate fake and low-quality medicines from Pakistan. Moreover, he stressed that every medicine will become digitally traceable for the first time. He added that the system will improve transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical sector. As a result, patients will gain more trust in available medicines.
Under the new rules, all pharmaceutical manufacturers and importers will be required to use standardized 2D barcodes. They will also add serialization data on medicine packaging. This will allow regulators to monitor products from production to final consumption.
In addition, the system will help identify counterfeit medicines more quickly. It will also support the removal of unsafe products from the market. Once fully implemented, consumers will be able to check key details of medicines. These include expiry date, price, and verification status. This will help people make safer and more informed health choices.
The minister said this step will improve public confidence in healthcare services. It will also strengthen trust in the pharmaceutical industry.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) will manage the nationwide rollout. It will also issue technical guidelines for pharmaceutical companies. These guidelines will support smooth compliance with the new system.
According to the official statement, consultative meetings have already taken place. Relevant stakeholders were involved to ensure a smooth transition.
Furthermore, Kamal said the initiative will upgrade Pakistan’s drug monitoring system. It will replace traditional methods with a digital framework.
He also said the use of modern technology will improve oversight and quality control. Pakistan may also join regional leaders in pharmaceutical regulation through this move.
Finally, he emphasized that the Track and Trace system will act as a strong safeguard. It will help protect public health, lives, and consumer trust across the country.
