Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has said that herbal medicines are becoming increasingly important and that the government is working on a regulatory framework to support the sector in Pakistan.

Speaking at a seminar on herbal and traditional medicines, the minister said the country currently lacks comprehensive laws and regulations governing herbal products. He noted that proposed legislation has been forwarded to the Ministry of Law and that new regulations are expected to be placed before the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan in the coming weeks.

Mustafa Kamal said the conference was not intended to oppose conventional medicine, adding that both modern and traditional healthcare systems have their own roles and importance. He stressed the need to explore complementary approaches to healthcare as the burden of disease continues to rise.

The health minister said Pakistan’s healthcare system faces growing pressure from increasing numbers of patients. According to him, expanding hospital infrastructure alone will not be enough to address public health challenges if disease rates continue to increase.

He also highlighted the country’s pharmaceutical sector, stating that around 85 percent of medicines are manufactured locally, although much of the raw material is still imported.

Population growth remains a major challenge

Addressing a separate ceremony under the National Population Stabilisation Programme, Mustafa Kamal said rapid population growth remains one of Pakistan’s most pressing challenges.

He said the government is working to address population-related issues, noting that rising population levels contribute to pressures on public services, employment opportunities, and economic resources.

The minister added that many young people face difficulties in securing government jobs, underscoring the broader impact of population growth on the country’s development and social infrastructure.

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