PM orders crackdown on substandard syringes

July 03, 2026 (MLN): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to formulate policy measures, in consultation with the medical equipment industry, aimed at permanently preventing the spread of infectious diseases through syringes.

Chairing a meeting to review efforts to contain infectious diseases, the prime minister also ordered a nationwide ban on the manufacture and use of substandard syringes, describing the measure as essential to reducing the transmission of diseases such as AIDS and Hepatitis C.

He directed authorities to initiate legal action against individuals and healthcare facilities found using substandard syringes or displaying criminal negligence in preventing their use, according to APP.

To strengthen the country's disease control framework, the prime minister ordered the establishment of a committee of health experts to develop recommendations in consultation with provincial governments.

He also instructed the Ministry of Law to work with relevant institutions to propose amendments to the existing legal and regulatory framework to improve oversight and enforcement.

Emphasising that a coordinated national strategy and its effective implementation were essential to tackling infectious diseases, the prime minister called for stronger collaboration with international partners.

He also stressed the need to focus on improving medical equipment manufacturing standards and enhancing the training of healthcare professionals.

During the meeting, officials from the Special Task Force constituted on the prime minister's directives and the Ministry of National Health Services briefed participants on measures being implemented to curb the spread of infectious diseases.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar, Minister of State for Health Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan, Global Fund representative Izaskun Gaviria, public health experts, representatives of the Ministry of National Health Services and DRAP, and senior government officials.

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