ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal has reaffirmed Pakistan’s ambition to become a regional hub for clinical trials, highlighting the country’s vast potential in clinical research during a high-level review meeting in Islamabad.
The meeting brought together senior officials, including the heads of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), the National Institute of Health (NIH), and the Director General Health, alongside Babar Saeed, Director of the Clinical Trial Unit.
Kamal said amendments to the DRAP Bio-Study Rules are underway to establish a regulatory framework that is transparent, efficient, and aligned with international standards. He noted that the government is introducing a modern digital system to ensure all clinical trial applications are processed online, aiming to improve efficiency and transparency.
The minister also announced plans to host a National Clinical Trials Summit, which will convene experts, institutions, Contract Research Organizations (CROs), and sponsors from Pakistan and abroad to explore collaboration opportunities and showcase the country’s growing research capacity.
He emphasized that international CROs and sponsors will be provided full facilitation to conduct trials in Pakistan, with the government committed to supporting the introduction of new technologies and innovative medicines into the local market.
Kamal concluded that these initiatives are designed to strengthen Pakistan’s position in global research and development, while contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and economic growth.
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