Aurangzeb calls for transparent drug pricing regime

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Friday called for a transparent, evidence-based and consultative drug pricing regime that safeguards affordable access to essential medicines while ensuring a sustainable pharmaceutical supply chain and serving the broader public interest. Aurangzeb chaired the 8th meeting of the Cabinet Committee constituted by the Prime Minister to consider the recommendations of the Drug Pricing Committee and the Policy Board of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Mustafa Kamal, and Federal Minister for Defense Production, Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj. The committee received a detailed presentation from DRAP on recommendations relating to new drug price fixation cases, hardship applications, pricing matters and the availability of essential medicines. The presentation also provided an update on progress made since the previous meeting and outlined the proposals placed before the committee for consideration. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasised that drug pricing decisions should be transparent, evidence-based, with a consultative approach and guided by the 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. Besides the Cabinet Members, senior public officials including Secretary, National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Muhammad Aslam Ghauri; Chief Executive Officer, DRAP; representatives of Commerce and Finance Divisions also attended the meeting. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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