Pakistan’s pharma exports could skyrocket by providing solutions to tackle AMR and NCDs, expert says
M. Waqar Bhatti:
Islamabad: Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports have the potential to increase multifold if the industry and academic institutions develop innovative solutions for combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), as very little is being invested globally in solving AMR, which is a growing threat.
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“By 2050, the world will have over two billion elderly people, particularly in developed countries, in need of therapeutic drugs and diagnostics. This presents an unparalleled opportunity for Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector if we can harness innovation. But it requires investment in research, which is currently lacking,” said Dr. Mehmood Khan, CEO of the Hevolution Foundation, while delivering the keynote address at the 7th Pharma Export Summit and Awards 2024.
The PESA 2024 summit, which attracted over 400 executives, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, also featured discussions on cutting-edge technologies and global market trends. Experts such as Dennis Hall, Vice-President of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, and Pinar Kivilcim from Ipsos Healthcare, provided insights on innovations and market research driving pharma growth worldwide.
Dr. Khan emphasized the urgent need for collaboration and research, warning that AMR, which claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually, is a global health crisis. “Most of the U.S. health sector’s funding is directed at cancer research, while AMR is receiving very little investment, even though it kills cancer patients too.”
He also highlighted a critical issue plaguing the country—brain drain. “Pakistan’s brightest minds are leaving due to a lack of opportunities,” he warned. “If we want to position ourselves at the forefront of global healthcare solutions, we must invest in our talent and infrastructure.”
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Barath, National Coordinator on Health, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to helping the pharmaceutical sector meet international manufacturing standards, essential for competing in the global market.
“The government offers its full support to ensure that our pharmaceutical industry not only thrives locally but also stands tall on the international stage,” said Dr. Barath. He highlighted the industry’s role in meeting 90% of the country’s medicinal needs, instrumental in boosting health outcomes and creating employment opportunities.
Barath also mentioned ongoing efforts to align the sector with global standards. “We are fostering an environment that encourages research, innovation, and regulatory excellence. Pending legislation on the Drug Act will be addressed through collaboration with the provinces,” he added, referring to the devolvement of health responsibilities post-18th Amendment.
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan expressed the government’s plan to reactivate 16 sectoral councils aimed at industrial growth, including pharmaceuticals. “These councils will craft policies and provide actionable insights, which will then be presented to the Prime Minister’s Export Development Board,” he announced. Each council will have its own secretariat to drive sector-specific strategies.
Jam Kamal highlighted the pharmaceutical industry’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic development, with the government determined to remove any obstacles hindering its growth. “Consistency in policies will build investor confidence,” he said. “Our sector has the potential to capture international markets, but proper diagnoses and solutions are required for sustainable growth.”
He acknowledged past oversight of important sectors and pledged that the government would now focus on those with potential, including pharmaceuticals. He commended the organizers of the summ…
