ISLAMABAD: JULY 10 (DNA):Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Khalid Hussain Magsi, held an important meeting today with stakeholders from the pharmaceutical industry. The meeting aimed to review the challenges and opportunities facing the local pharmaceutical sector and to explore ways in which the government can support its growth. The Minister stated that the Prime Minister has directed all relevant authorities to enhance collaboration with local pharma companies to help the industry move towards greater self-reliance.
The Federal Minister emphasized that, in line with the Prime Minister’s directives, the Ministry of Science and Technology is taking concrete steps to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector at the domestic level. Relevant institutions have been instructed to extend full technical, research, and production-related support to local pharmaceutical companies.
Khalid Hussain Magsi highlighted that the government is working to enhance the production capacity of computer-controlled fermenters and promote their local manufacturing. Simultaneously, the research and development infrastructure for biochemicals, biopharmaceuticals, and bio-proteins will be upgraded to meet modern standards. These steps, he said, are crucial to ensuring the industry’s long-term independence and improving quality standards.
He further noted that reducing reliance on imports is essential for promoting a biotechnology-based economy. In this regard, various possibilities are being explored, including the local production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), to strengthen domestic manufacturing and ensure better utilization of national resources.
The Minister added that PCSIR has been directed to immediately establish contact with local pharmaceutical companies. This initiative aims to build a direct line of communication between the industry and the government and to work jointly towards developing a globally competitive pharmaceutical sector in Pakistan.