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Pakistan’s ongoing nationwide strike by goods transporters has entered its 10th day, causing widespread disruption in port operations and triggering severe shortages of essential medicines across the country. Pharmaceutical supplies, particularly in Balochistan, are running critically low, putting patients at risk and highlighting the urgent need for government intervention.
The strike, primarily in protest against stricter regulations under the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025, has left thousands of containers stranded at Karachi Port and Port Qasim. Exporters are now forced to consider costly air shipments to meet delivery deadlines, while industrial production and exports suffer daily losses estimated at $92 million, with the textile sector alone contributing $52 million.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers report a growing backlog of medicines in warehouses, with distribution halted due to the transport disruption. Chronic disease medications, including those for diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions, are especially affected. The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) and the Pakistan Chemists and Druggists Association have urged authorities to prioritize the transportation of essential medicines to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
Malik Shehzad Awan, President of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance, reiterated,
“The strike will continue until our demands are officially acknowledged,” underscoring the uncertainty facing supply chains nationwide.
With talks ongoing between transporters and federal and provincial authorities, relief for the pharmaceutical sector remains uncertain. Without immediate action, the shortage of life-saving drugs may intensify, particularly in remote areas heavily dependent on Karachi’s supply chain.
