Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal Leads Efforts to Eliminate Counterfeit Medicines through 2D Barcode System

In a decisive move against the circulation of counterfeit medicines in Pakistan, Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal chaired a high-level review meeting on the implementation of the 2D Barcode System, an innovative digital solution aimed at ensuring drug authenticity.

The meeting, held under the chairmanship of the minister, was attended by key stakeholders including the CEO of DRAP (Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan), top officials from Pharma Bureau, and Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers' Association (PPMA).

“With the digitalization of DRAP, the elimination of counterfeit medicines is now inevitable,” stated Mustafa Kamal.

During the meeting, a comprehensive roadmap for the implementation of the 2D barcode system was presented. The discussion covered the technical and regulatory aspects of the initiative, and all stakeholders shared their insights and suggestions. The valuable recommendations by industry leaders were acknowledged and accepted, showing a spirit of collaboration between the government and the pharmaceutical sector.

The pharmaceutical industry extended full support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to not only safeguard patient health but also enhance the global credibility and export potential of Pakistan’s pharma sector.

“This is a revolutionary step for the development of our pharmaceutical industry,” added the health minister.

As a follow-up to this progress, a next review meeting has been scheduled for August 20, 2025, to monitor implementation and further enhance coordination.

Mustafa Kamal emphasized that fake medicines not only pose serious risks to patients but also damage the reputation of the pharma industry. By introducing this traceability system, public safety will be improved and pharma exports will see a positive boost.

The industry representatives lauded the minister’s commitment and called this initiative “historic and transformative.” They reaffirmed their full cooperation in eliminating counterfeit medicines from the market.