ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation and strengthen oversight of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical and therapeutic goods market through improved data and information sharing.
The MoU was inked by Salman Amin, Member CCP, and Dr Obaidullah, Chief Executive Officer DRAP. The ceremony held at CCP’s head office was witnessed by Member CCP Saeed Ahmed Nawaz, Aamar Latif, Director Legal Affairs DRAP, and senior officials from both organizations.
The MoU establishes a framework for closer coordination. Both institutions will share information, support joint enforcement, and strengthen monitoring of deceptive marketing practices, unfair competition, and misleading claims in the therapeutic goods and Over-the-Counter (OTC) categories. The agreement also covers digital data exchange, capacity building, and collaboration in research and policy analysis.
Speaking at the ceremony, Member CCP Salman Amin said the partnership will ensure fair market practices which help economy and protect consumers. This collaboration is more imminent when online advertising and e-commerce have increased the risk of deceptive practices. He said that the pharmaceutical sector has a direct impact on public at large and both institutions have to work together to ensure transparency and fair competition.
DRAP CEO Dr Obaidullah said federal regulatory bodies operate under defined mandates but share common goals in certain domains. He noted that price deregulation and supply challenges require coordinated oversight. He added that harmonization and collaboration between institutions improve regulatory outcomes and help maintain availability and fair pricing of essential medicines.
The CCP and DRAP affirmed their commitment to implement the MoU through practical, joint actions that support consumer welfare and strengthen Pakistan’s health-related markets.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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