The Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Minister Mustafa Kamal, has initiated the implementation of a 2D barcode system to eradicate counterfeit medicines in Pakistan. A high-level meeting was held to review the progress of this significant project, focusing on the details of its execution and stakeholder involvement.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Executive Officers of DRAP (Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan), Pharma Bureau, and the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA), along with other senior officials. Participants discussed the practical aspects of the 2D barcode system, and a comprehensive roadmap for its deployment was presented.
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal emphasized that the suggestions from industry stakeholders were carefully considered and fully incorporated into the action plan. Pharmaceutical industry representatives assured their complete support and cooperation for the successful launch of this initiative.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled later in the year to review further progress of the project. Kamal highlighted that DRAP’s digitization has made eliminating fake medicines both necessary and achievable, marking the start of a groundbreaking project for Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector.
The new barcode system aims not only to protect patients by ensuring the authenticity of medicines but also to enhance the global reputation and export potential of the local pharmaceutical industry. Industry leaders praised the Health Ministry’s decision, calling the initiative “historic and revolutionary,” and reiterated their commitment to cooperate in the fight against counterfeit drugs.
