The federal government on Friday reviewed a fresh set of proposals on medicine prices, with Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb underscoring that any changes must be transparent, evidence-based and aimed at protecting the public interest.
Aurangzeb chaired the eighth meeting of the cabinet committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to examine recommendations put forward by the Drug Pricing Committee and the Policy Board of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
The meeting was attended by Minister for National Health Services Mustafa Kamal, Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj, senior officials from the health ministry, DRAP, and representatives of the Commerce and Finance Divisions.
During the meeting, DRAP presented a detailed briefing covering proposals for the pricing of new medicines, hardship applications filed by pharmaceutical companies, outstanding pricing matters and the availability of essential drugs across the country.
The regulator also updated the committee on progress made since its previous meeting and shared recommendations for consideration.
Addressing the participants, Aurangzeb said decisions on medicine prices should be taken through a transparent and consultative process supported by evidence. He stressed that the government must strike a careful balance between ensuring patients have access to essential medicines, maintaining a stable pharmaceutical supply and keeping treatment affordable for the public.
The finance minister also highlighted the importance of clearly communicating the reasons behind pricing decisions, particularly when they involve critical medicines. He said greater public awareness would help improve understanding of how such decisions are made.
The latest meeting reflects the government’s continued efforts to review Pakistan’s drug pricing framework while addressing concerns over medicine availability, industry sustainability and affordability for patients.
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