Farmane-Ilahi

ISLAMABAD (92 News) In a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Transparency International Pakistan has expressed concerns over regulatory loopholes in the pharmaceutical sector, disclosing violations of medical device rules and delays in approvals by manufacturers.

The letter states that pharmaceutical companies are selling expensive medicines by creating artificial shortages, while the federal government is accused of not effectively monitoring the pharmaceutical industry.

It highlights that new appointments of Federal Inspectors of Drugs could not be implemented in the last two and a half years, with only two federal inspectors active across the country, causing the pharmaceutical sector to suffer from a lack of supervision.

The letter further notes that more than 700 pharmaceutical license holders are working without proper supervision, raising fears of unregulated and dangerous medical products entering the market.

Despite the DRAP Act of 2012, questions are being raised over the non-appointment of a permanent director.

Transparency International Pakistan has demanded an investigation from the prime minister, emphasising the appointment of necessary federal inspectors and strict implementation of laws, along with a demand for taking decisive steps to maintain the integrity of the health system.