Islamabad (GNP) :- Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has welcomed the announcement by the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) on the designation of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) as an Observer at the ICH Assembly held on 2–3 June 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Congratulting Nation on this landmark achievement, the Minister termed it a major step forward in
Pakistan’s journey towards a modern, globally integrated regulatory system.
As a globally recognized platform, ICH brings together leading regulatory authorities and industry to develop harmonised technical guidelines that ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines. Engagement at this level will enable Pakistan to benefit from global best practices, while contributing to ongoing international regulatory dialogue.
This development is expected to strengthen regulatory capacity, improve transparency and efficiency, and enhance confidence in the national pharmaceutical system. It will also open new avenues for the domestic industry to align with international standards and expand its global footprint.
This milestone reflects the Government’s steadfast commitment to advancing the vision of the Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan for modernizing public institutions, strengthening the health system, and ensuring Pakistan’s alignment with internationally recognised best regulatory practices.
“Alhamdolillah, DRAP’s recognition as an ICH Observer is a landmark achievement that reflects Pakistan’s determined progress towards global regulatory alignment. We are decisively advancing towards internationally harmonised standards, strengthening our regulatory institutions, and ensuring that medicines available in Pakistan meet the highest levels of quality, safety, and efficacy. This milestone reinforces our vision of a modern, transparent, and globally trusted healthcare system that safeguards the well-being of our people,” said Syed Mustafa Kamal, Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination.
Reaffirming national priorities, the Government remains fully committed to supporting DRAP in achieving and sustaining WHO Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) Maturity Level 3, a key indicator of a stable, well-functioning regulatory system.
Looking ahead, the Minister expressed confidence that DRAP will continue to build on this momentum and progress toward full membership of ICH, alongside enhanced engagement with other international regulatory platforms, including the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S).
The Ministry reaffirmed its full support in advancing regulatory excellence, strengthening international collaboration, and ensuring improved access to safe and effective medicines for the people of Pakistan and our export markets.
