ISLAMABAD — The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has directed a nationwide market survey to enforce its ban on conventional disposable syringes, aiming to curb the circulation of substandard and unregulated medical products.
The directive, issued to the National Task Force on counterfeit medicines, seeks to identify products still being sold despite the ban and ensure regulatory action, as authorities step up enforcement across Pakistan.
Enforcement of existing ban
According to an official communication from Director Quality Control Zeeshan Nazir, the import and manufacturing of traditional disposable syringes have already been prohibited under earlier regulations.
Officials said the task force has been instructed to monitor markets nationwide and take action against violations in line with existing laws.
Role of national task force
The National Task Force, comprising DRAP and provincial drug control authorities, was reactivated in 2025 to address counterfeit and substandard medical products.
Since its reactivation, the body has been working to strengthen regulatory oversight, particularly in areas linked to patient safety such as syringe quality and medical device compliance.
Background of the ban
The ban on conventional disposable syringes was introduced in 2021. The Medical Devices Board subsequently cancelled all registrations of such syringes, both imported and locally manufactured, to phase them out of the market.
Authorities say the latest directive is part of efforts to ensure full compliance with these earlier decisions.
Reporting and compliance
The task force has been asked to submit a detailed report outlining survey findings and enforcement actions, including identification of non-compliant products and steps taken against them.
Officials say the move is aimed at strengthening public health safeguards by reducing risks associated with unsafe or unregulated medical devices.
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