Pakistan accelerates towards self-reliance in vaccine production

February 03, 2026 (MLN):  Pakistan is making significant strides towards self-reliance in the health sector, particularly in local vaccine manufacturing, as part of the government’s broader vision for domestic pharmaceutical development.

The move will not only address national immunization needs but also position Pakistan to produce surplus vaccines for export, boosting economic growth and stability.

In a major step to strengthen bilateral cooperation, an eleven-member high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia arrived in Pakistan.

The visit follows a series of discussions led by Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal, who has held three meetings with his Saudi counterpart focusing on local vaccine manufacturing, investment opportunities, and technical collaboration, according to a press release issued.

The Federal Minister also met with the Saudi Minister of Industry to explore broader industrial partnerships.

For coordination, Pakistan’s Dr. Obaid, CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), and Saudi Arabia’s Mr. Nizar Y. Al-Hariri, Senior Advisor to the Saudi Minister of Industry, were designated as focal persons. Dr. Obaid has since conducted six detailed meetings with Mr. Al-Hariri to advance technical and operational discussions.

Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal emphasized the government’s strong commitment to establishing local vaccine production facilities, reaffirming that ensuring the availability of safe, high-quality vaccines for the public remains a top priority.

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