Pakistan eyes SCO states for pharma partnerships

Conference brings members together to advance mutual benefits, expand market access

SUZHOU:

The 2nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Pharmaceutical Cooperation Development Conference held in Suzhou on September 25 showcased the commitment of member states to enhance international cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector. This platform serves as an avenue for SCO member states to advance mutual benefits, strengthen regulatory frameworks, encourage research and development partnerships, and expand market access, according to Asim Rauf, CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

Rauf, a VIP guest at the conference, delivered a keynote address underscoring Pakistan’s dedication to promoting pharmaceutical development and regulation. In his speech, he emphasised the significance of cooperation among SCO member states in ensuring drug safety and advancing research and development within the pharmaceutical industry.

In the face of unprecedented challenges, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, collaboration and partnership in the pharmaceutical sector have become increasingly vital. Pakistan and its fellow SCO members are committed to working together to ensure the availability of essential medicines, strengthen healthcare systems, and enhance the overall well-being of their populations.

The CEO took the opportunity to share Pakistan’s achievements in pharmaceutical regulation, highlighting DRAP’s efforts to streamline the drug approval process, improve quality control measures, and promote transparency within the pharmaceutical industry.

“Pakistan has made significant strides in regulation, and the global acceptance of its drugs is on the rise. Particularly during the pandemic, we have undertaken substantial work, including independent trials, the initiation of the digitisation process, the introduction of the CTD format, and automation,” the CEO added. “Recently, we have witnessed a surge in Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports as a result of these advancements. We are prepared to share the steps and experiences we have taken with other SCO member states.”

In an interview, Rauf explored various potential areas of collaboration and partnership between Pakistan and other SCO member states in the pharmaceutical sector, with clinical trials being a primary focus.

Pakistan imports various products from China, including manufactured goods, high-tech products, cancer medications, active pharmaceutical ingredients, and medical devices. The CEO revealed that there are numerous pending applications for clinical trials of Chinese medicines in Pakistan. He stated, “We have created a conducive environment in which we have specifically invited Chinese companies to bring their products to Pakistan and import them.”

In addition to participating in the conference, Rauf engaged in bilateral meetings with representatives from other SCO member states to explore opportunities for collaboration within the pharmaceutical sector. He noted that “the conference provided a platform where we can individually sign bilateral MoUs and agreements with all other member countries, allowing us to mutually commit and share knowledge on global issues that may impact public safety and public health.”

THIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED ON THE CHINA ECONOMIC NET

 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 28^th, 2023.

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