ISLAMABAD: In a major step to revolutionise the drug registration and licensing system, to curb the proliferation of unregistered and selling of unlicensed drugs, the government of Pakistan has launched an app for online registration and licensing of drugs.

The app was formally launched here on Wednesday by Caretaker Federal Minister for National Health Services and Coordination Dr Nadeem Jan. Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that he had directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to digitalise drug licensing and registration soon after taking charge of the ministry.

Pharmaceutical companies will be able to submit online applications for registration and license. Earlier, applicants had to visit DRAP to apply for registration or licensing of drugs.

This digital transformation will streamline the process for companies seeking to register or license new drugs while eliminating the need for physical visits to DRAP offices. Under the new system, companies will be able to apply for drug registration and licensing online.

This will not only reduce the administrative burden but will expedite the approval process. The digitised system will also facilitate the registration and licensing of new drugs from multinational companies.

Registration and licensing of new multinational companies is also digital under the new system. Automated system will lead to an increase in exports and enhanced confidence of international organisations in Pakistan’s medicines. The minister said the foundation of merit and transparency has been laid in DRAP.

Due to merit and transparency, the efficiency of institutions increases significantly and the initiative will increase public confidence in the regulator, the minister said.

Dr Jan said that his ministry was vigorously pursuing the implementation of the reform agenda in the Ministry of Health. This initiative will promote transparency.

A complaint app was also launched by Dr Jan to ensure direct communication with the regulator. The minister said that the government was ensuring practical steps to transform DRAP on modern lines. Coordinated steps are being taken to bring DRAP at par with international standards.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023