ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal has warned pharmaceutical companies of strict legal action, including the sealing of production units, if they fail to submit mandatory data for 2D barcodes on medicines after the October 9 deadline.
Chairing a progress meeting in Islamabad, the minister was told that around 80 per cent of pharmaceutical companies had begun introducing the 2D barcode system. The meeting included the chief executive of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP, the federal medicines regulator), officials from relevant institutions, and industry stakeholders.
Notices planned for firms still outside the system
The Ministry of National Health Services decided to issue formal notices to companies that have not submitted the required data to DRAP. Kamal warned that firms that still fail to comply within the stipulated period would face strict legal action, and that production units of those withholding the data could be sealed.
He directed all pharmaceutical companies to submit their serialization data to DRAP as prescribed. Serialization means each medicine pack carries a unique code so regulators can follow it through the supply chain.
Why the government is pushing barcodes
Kamal said eliminating counterfeit medicines had become imperative and that there would be no compromise on implementing the 2D barcode system. He announced a zero-tolerance policy toward non-compliance.
According to the minister, the system is needed for effective monitoring of medicines, greater transparency, and a reliable track-and-trace mechanism across the pharmaceutical supply chain. He said strict enforcement would help curb fake drugs and strengthen public confidence in the quality and authenticity of medicines sold in the market.
Timeline: what has happened so far
- October 9: Deadline for implementing 2D barcodes on medicines.
- November 3: Mustafa Kamal chairs a review meeting in Islamabad with DRAP’s CEO and other stakeholders.
- November 3: Officials report that around 80% of pharmaceutical companies have started the barcode process.
- November 3: The ministry decides to send formal notices to firms that have not submitted required data to DRAP.
- November 3: Kamal announces zero tolerance and warns that non-compliant production units may be sealed.
Aasan alfaaz mein
Sarkar medicines par 2D barcode lagwane ka rule apply kar rahi hai taake asli aur naqli dawai pehchani ja sake. Wazir Mustafa Kamal ne kaha hai ke lagbhag 80% pharmaceutical companies ne ye kaam shuru kar diya hai. Jo companies DRAP ko zaroori data nahi bhejengi, unhein notice milega aur unke factories seal bhi ho sakte hain. Aam logon ke liye is ka matlab ye hai ke market mein medicine ki asliyat check karna aasan hona chahiye.
