Govt reviews drug prices, focuses on affordable medicines

July 24, 2026 (MLN): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the eighth meeting of the Cabinet Committee formed by the Prime Minister to review recommendations submitted by the Drug Pricing Committee and the Policy Board of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Mustafa Kamal and Federal Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj.

During the meeting, DRAP gave a detailed briefing on proposals related to the pricing of new drugs, hardship applications, pricing issues, and the availability of essential medicines.

The authority also updated the Committee on progress made since its previous meeting and presented recommendations for consideration.

Muhammad Aurangzeb stressed that decisions on drug pricing should be transparent, evidence-based, and made through a consultative process while serving the broader public interest.

He said it was important to maintain a balance between ensuring patient access to essential medicines, sustaining pharmaceutical supplies, and keeping medicines affordable.

He also emphasized the need for effective public communication to explain the basis of decisions concerning critical medicines.

The meeting was also attended by Secretary National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, the Chief Executive Officer of DRAP, and representatives from the Commerce and Finance Divisions.

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