ISLAMABAD – A new drug testing laboratory under the national regulatory system received World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification as the facility highlights growing progress in aligning local drug testing standards with global requirements and is expected to boost confidence in the country’s pharmaceutical sector.
The development is being widely seen as a strong validation of Pakistan’s growing regulatory strength and commitment to global quality standards. The state-of-the-art laboratory, set to be established in Karachi under DRAP, shows step forward in strengthening the country’s drug testing and quality assurance infrastructure.
Its establishment comes after successfully navigating a range of domestic and international challenges through sustained coordination and focused efforts. Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) facilitated breakthrough for Pakistan’s global standing in medical regulation and drug quality assurance.
This milestone is said to enhance global confidence in Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry, positioning locally manufactured medicines more competitively in international markets. It also opens new opportunities for increased pharmaceutical exports by aligning Pakistan’s testing standards with globally recognized benchmarks.
Industry experts view this recognition as a positive signal for investors, showing improved transparency, regulatory reliability, and long-term potential within Pakistan’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.
Beyond international impact, the development is also expected to bring practical benefits at home by reducing reliance on foreign laboratories for drug testing. With advanced in-country capabilities now being strengthened, Pakistan will be better equipped to ensure timely, cost-effective, and high-quality testing of pharmaceutical products.
Overall, this achievement marks an important moment in Pakistan’s journey toward modernizing its health regulatory framework—reflecting steady progress, rising global trust, and a stronger foundation for future growth in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
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