ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved an “innovative step” to eliminate counterfeit medicines by introducing barcode labels on medicine packaging, officials said.
According to officials, the federal cabinet has formally approved the implementation of a track and trace system aimed at strengthening regulation of the pharmaceutical supply chain and improving drug safety across Pakistan.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said consumers will soon be able to verify medicines through a barcode printed on each medicine pack, enabling digital authentication of pharmaceutical products.
He added that the cabinet has also approved amendments to the Drug Labeling and Packing Rules, 1978, marking a major regulatory update for the pharmaceutical sector.
According to the minister, the initiative represents a “historic step” toward eliminating counterfeit and substandard medicines from Pakistan. He said the system will allow consumers to independently verify expiry dates, usage details, and pricing information through digital tools.
Officials said the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) will implement the new system nationwide. Under the policy, pharmaceutical companies and importers will be required to implement barcode and serialization systems on medicine packaging.
Companies will be mandated to include 2D barcodes and serialization data on each medicine pack, ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain.
The government said the objective is to secure and modernize the drug distribution system and bring it in line with international standards. Officials added that the track and trace mechanism will replace traditional monitoring methods with a more advanced digital system.
Authorities believe the barcode-based system will significantly reduce counterfeit medicines and help ensure quality assurance, patient safety, and public trust in the healthcare system.
DRAP is expected to issue technical guidelines soon to facilitate industry compliance, while consultations with stakeholders have already been held, officials said.
