Only 100,000 of 3m Hepatitis C tests used in Pakistan

September 23, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s Hepatitis C elimination programme has utilized only around 100,000 of nearly three million procured diagnostic tests, raising concerns over the pace of implementation.

The issue was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and a representative of Abbott’s Pharmaceuticals Division during his visit to attend the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The Finance Minister expressed concern over the slow progress of the programme, noting that only around 100,000 of the approximately three million diagnostic tests procured so far had been utilized.

He attributed the limited utilization to leadership turnover, inadequate project management and limited public awareness, highlighting the need to address these issues to accelerate implementation.

The Finance Minister appreciated Abbott’s technical assistance, particularly the company’s experience in supporting Egypt’s large-scale screening programme, which could provide relevant expertise for Pakistan’s Hepatitis C elimination efforts.

The meeting also covered measures to improve the regulatory capacity of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), diversification of pharmaceutical exports and Abbott’s plans concerning oncology treatment.

Delays in resolving hardship cases related to medicine pricing also came under discussion.

Muhammad Aurangzeb acknowledged the need to maintain a balance between affordability, commercial viability and continuity of medicine supplies, while ensuring that pricing-related issues are addressed in a timely manner.

The Finance Minister undertook to raise the implementation issues concerning the Hepatitis C programme with the relevant authorities in Pakistan to expedite progress.

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