Govt reviews drug pricing, availability

Aurangzeb calls for transparent, evidence-based decisions to ensure access and affordability

ISLAMABAD:

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the 8th meeting of the Cabinet Committee to consider recommendations of the Drug Pricing Committee and the Policy Board of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), according to a statement on Friday.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for National Health Services Mustafa Kamal and Defence Production Minister Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj.

DRAP presented recommendations on new drug price fixation cases, hardship applications, pricing matters and availability of essential medicines. The presentation also provided an update on progress since the previous meeting and outlined the proposals placed before the Committee for consideration.

Aurangzeb emphasised that drug pricing decisions must be transparent, evidence-based with consultative approach and guided by broader public interest. He underscored the importance of balancing patient access to essential medicines with the sustainability of pharmaceutical supply and affordability for patients.

He also highlighted the need for clear public engagement to explain the rationale behind decisions affecting critical medicines.

Senior officials including Health Secretary Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, DRAP Chief Executive Officer and representatives of the commerce and finance divisions also attended the meeting.