Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday assured representatives of multinational pharmaceutical companies of the government’s commitment to maintaining policy consistency and strengthening governance to support the healthcare sector.
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The assurance was given during a meeting with a delegation of the Pharma Bureau, led by its chairman Syed Anis Ahmed. The delegation included co-chairperson Ms Erum Shakir Rahim, Haleon Pakistan Ltd CEO Qawi Naseer, Roche Pakistan CEO Ms Hafsa Shamsi, Sajjad Iftikhar, Ms Andleeb Ahmed, and Ms Ayesha T. Haq.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held a meeting today with a delegation of the Pharma Bureau to discuss key policy, regulatory, and economic issues concerning the pharmaceutical sector.
The delegation was led by the Chairman of Pharma Bureau,… pic.twitter.com/zLCkAEyiPs
— Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan (@Financegovpk) February 4, 2026
During the meeting, the delegation briefed the finance minister on the overall performance of the pharmaceutical sector and highlighted recent developments, including improvements in regulatory processes, enhanced digitalisation, and increased engagement between regulators and industry stakeholders. Members also referred to progress towards achieving higher World Health Organisation maturity levels for Pakistan’s drug regulatory authority, alongside advancements in product approvals, exports and the broader macroeconomic environment.
The Pharma Bureau shared its perspectives on key operational challenges facing the industry, such as pricing and product availability, regulatory timelines, investment facilitation, taxation, innovation, and export potential. The delegation stressed the need for a predictable policy environment, effective governance and stronger regulatory capacity aligned with international standards, while ensuring patient welfare remains a central priority.
Mr Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s resolve to address structural issues through consistent policies and improved coordination among relevant institutions. He underscored the importance of a stable regulatory framework to encourage investment, support innovation and ensure uninterrupted access to quality medicines for patients.
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The meeting also discussed the pharmaceutical sector’s role in contributing to economic growth and exports, with both sides acknowledging the importance of continued dialogue between the government and industry to resolve challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities.