The head of Pakistan’s Drug Regulatory Authority (DRAP) briefed regional counterparts in Cairo on the authority’s push to modernize regulation and support evidence-based policymaking, highlighting steps to digitalize processes and position Pakistan as a regional hub for large-scale clinical trials. DRAP framed these efforts as part of a broader commitment to regulatory excellence and alignment with global standards to ensure safe, effective, and quality therapeutic products.
DRAP Chief Executive Dr. Obaidullah represented Pakistan at the Eastern Mediterranean regional technical consultation on strengthening research and data systems for evidence-informed policy making. He presented the authority’s recent initiatives and engaged with delegates from WHO EMRO member countries on strategies to improve regulatory decision-making through stronger data and research systems.
A central focus of the DRAP presentation was the digitalization of regulatory processes. The authority described upgrades intended to streamline approvals, improve transparency, and speed up regulatory responses, all aimed at creating a more efficient and reliable system for oversight of medicines and medical products.
Dr. Obaidullah also outlined DRAP’s strategic planning for evidence-based policymaking, emphasizing the role of robust data collection and analysis in shaping regulatory decisions. Strengthening research capacity and integrating data-driven tools were presented as key pillars for future policy formulation and regulatory actions.
DRAP emphasized that Pakistan’s increasingly conducive regulatory environment is enabling the country to emerge as a regional hub for large-scale clinical trials. The authority said these developments should attract research activity while maintaining high standards of participant safety and product quality.
Overall, DRAP framed its initiatives as aligning with global best practices and international partners’ expectations, underscoring a commitment to innovation, regulatory integrity, and the reliable availability of quality therapeutic goods in Pakistan.
