ISLAMABAD: The Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL), Karachi has received prequalification from the World Health Organization, the Ministry of National Health Services said on Wednesday.
The certification means testing services of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) now comply with WHO standards, giving Pakistan’s drug testing international recognition. Medicines tested at CDL will be certified as safe, effective and of high quality, the ministry’s spokesperson said.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal termed the development a “foundational milestone” in the government’s health reforms, and congratulated Drap and the technical team of CDL Karachi.
“The government is committed to transforming the health system into a comprehensive healthcare model where disease prevention and quality are prioritised over treatment alone,” he said.
He added that analysis of medicines at national laboratories in line with international standards was “the first line of defence in protecting citizens’ lives”. The WHO prequalification, he said, would boost global confidence in ‘Made in Pakistan’ pharmaceuticals and create new opportunities for the local industry in international markets.
The minister said the development would also strengthen the confidence of healthcare professionals and patients. He reiterated that the health ministry would continue to modernise the regulatory system and take “practical measures” against substandard and spurious medicines.
