Aurangzeb says drug pricing must be transparent, evidence-based

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, emphasised on Friday that drug pricing decisions should be transparent, evidence-based, consultative, and guided by the broader public interest.

He said this while chairing the 8th meeting of the cabinet committee constituted by the Prime Minister to consider the recommendations of the Drug Pricing Committee and the Policy Board of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

The committee received a detailed presentation from DRAP on recommendations regarding new drug price fixation cases, hardship applications, pricing matters, and the availability of essential medicines, as per the Finance Division.

“The presentation also provided an update on progress made since the previous meeting and outlined the proposals placed before the Committee for consideration.”

During the meeting, Aurangzeb underscored the importance of balancing patient access to essential medicines with the sustainability of pharmaceutical supply and affordability for patients.

He also highlighted the need for clear public engagement to explain the rationale behind decisions affecting critical medicines.

DRAP is a key regulatory body responsible for ensuring the hassle-free approval and registration of new medicines in the country, aligning with international pharmaceutical practices.

In April 2026, DRAP’s first drug testing laboratory secured prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO), a move expected to significantly enhance the global credibility of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical quality framework and boost exports