ISLAMABAD: Federal health authorities are progressing with efforts to establish the Pakistan Food and Drug Authority (FDA), a unified regulatory entity inspired by global models. This new authority will replace the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) and oversee the regulation of food, pesticides, and cosmetics.
The initiative aims to enhance public health, boost exports, and align Pakistan with international standards. A second review meeting on the project was held at Drap, chaired by the Prime Minister’s Health Coordinator, Dr. Mukhtar Bharath.
Dr. Bharath stressed the urgent need for a centralized FDA to address the challenges caused by fragmented regulations.
Currently, food regulation is managed by provincial governments with varying standards, while pesticides fall under the Ministry of Food. This division has created gaps that allow harmful chemicals to infiltrate the food supply, causing chronic health issues.
The new authority will consolidate oversight of food, pesticides, and cosmetics to ensure global quality and safety standards. By doing so, it aims to protect public health and improve product quality, enabling Pakistan to meet international benchmarks.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Drap, the Ministry of Food, provincial governments, and other stakeholders, is finalizing recommendations for the proposed authority. A formal concept note will soon be presented to the prime minister for approval.
One of the key objectives of the Pakistan FDA is to facilitate exports by ensuring that products meet stringent international requirements. Dr. Bharath highlighted that a centralized certification system would enhance Pakistan’s export potential for food and related products.
“This step aligns with the prime minister’s vision to increase exports while ensuring the safety and quality of domestic products,” he added.
By addressing regulatory gaps, particularly in pesticides classified solely as agricultural products, the new authority aims to mitigate significant health risks.
The health ministry reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the successful establishment of the Pakistan FDA. This initiative is expected to have long-term benefits for public health and economic growth in the country.
