DRAP and CCP Sign MoU to Strengthen Oversight of Pakistan’s Pharma Market

Pakistan has taken a major step toward improving transparency, fair competition, and consumer protection in its pharmaceutical and therapeutic goods sector. In a significant development, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting coordination and enhancing regulatory oversight.

The MoU, signed in Islamabad and reported on Thursday, brings together two key federal bodies that play central roles in monitoring the pharmaceutical supply chain and ensuring competitive market behaviour. The agreement was formally inked by CCP Member Salman Amin and DRAP CEO Dr Obaidullah during a ceremony held at the CCP headquarters. Senior officials, including Member CCP Saeed Ahmed Nawaz and DRAP Director of Legal Affairs Aamar Latif, were present at the event.

The partnership establishes a structured framework for closer collaboration between the two organisations. Under this MoU, DRAP and CCP will share market data, cooperate on investigations, and jointly monitor deceptive marketing tactics, misleading therapeutic claims, and anti-competitive practices—especially in the fast-growing Over-the-Counter (OTC) and therapeutic goods segments.

The agreement also extends to digital information sharing, capacity-building initiatives, and collaborative research efforts intended to strengthen policy-making. As online advertising and e-commerce continue to reshape the pharmaceutical landscape, both institutions acknowledged the heightened risk of misleading promotions and unfair business practices.

Speaking at the ceremony, CCP Member Salman Amin emphasised that the partnership will help ensure fair market practices and protect consumers in a sector that directly affects millions. He noted that coordinated oversight has become essential as digital platforms expand their reach and influence on purchasing behaviour.

DRAP CEO Dr Obaidullah echoed this sentiment, highlighting that while federal regulators have distinct mandates, their objectives often overlap. He pointed out that price deregulation, supply-chain challenges, and the need for uninterrupted availability of essential medicines demand a unified approach. Improved cooperation, he added, will enhance regulatory outcomes and contribute to stable pricing and consistent access to medicines.

Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to putting the MoU into practical action through joint enforcement, shared monitoring, and effective market oversight. The collaboration is expected to strengthen consumer welfare and reinforce transparency across Pakistan’s pharmaceutical and health-related markets.