**Federal Minister Visits Health Expo, Applauds Growth in Pakistan’s Pharma Industry**
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, commended the achievements and potential of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector during a visit to the Med Health Expo & Summit, hosted by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) at the Pak-China Friendship Centre in Islamabad. The event brought together key stakeholders including government officials, foreign diplomats, and industry professionals to showcase and discuss advancements in the nation’s healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.
During his visit, Minister Khichi toured various stalls, praising the quality and innovation of products presented by pharmaceutical and medical companies. He lauded RCCI’s ongoing efforts to support trade activities and promote the health and pharma sectors, describing the Chamber as a pivotal force for industry development. RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, and executive members welcomed the Minister and highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to industry advancement.
Speaking to the media, Minister Khichi congratulated RCCI for organizing a successful exhibition, noting the rising international recognition of Pakistani companies. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to elevating the pharmaceutical sector to global standards, saying, “In the coming years, Pakistan’s industry will lead internationally and the public will directly benefit from government initiatives.”
The two-day health expo focused on evaluating Pakistan’s potential for healthcare and pharmaceutical exports while drawing attention to industry challenges. Discussions centered on increasing export capabilities and the regulatory and market obstacles currently faced by the sector.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat, addressing attendees, stressed Pakistan’s expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing and the availability of a skilled workforce. He emphasized that Pakistan produces high-quality, affordable medicines that are attractive for the global market. Nevertheless, he identified regulatory hurdles, limited research and development, and fierce international competition as ongoing challenges that the industry must overcome.
The expo served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, with public and private sector leaders reiterating their commitment to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
