Islamabad Staff Reporter
Federal Minister for National Health Services, Syed Mustafa Kamal, lauded the digital transformation of Pakistan’s medical device regulatory system, stating it has significantly improved ease of doing business and aligned the country’s practices with international standards.
During his visit to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), the Minister reviewed the newly implemented online registration and licensing system for medical devices. He remarked that the move has boosted global confidence in Pakistan’s regulatory environment.
“Previously, obtaining a medical device license took between 18 to 24 months, which created unnecessary hurdles for businesses. Now, with a fully digital system, licenses are being issued within just 20 days,” said the Minister. He added that citizens can now submit applications from their homes and receive digital licenses conveniently.
DRAP CEO Dr. Obaidullah briefed the Minister on the system’s performance, revealing that since its launch, 940 applications have been received, of which 188 have been approved and licenses have been digitally issued to the respective companies. He assured that the remaining applications are being processed and will be completed within the stipulated time.
Dr. Obaidullah emphasized that the digitalization has not only facilitated business operations but also raised the quality and accessibility of medical devices across the country. He stated that timely and standardized access to quality medical devices has now been ensured, further enhancing the national healthcare infrastructure.
