Pakistan’s drug import dependence poses risks to critical medicine supply

Pharmaceutical imports are expected to reach $920m by 2029.

Pakistan’s reliance on pharmaceutical imports is expected to create supply chain vulnerabilities for critical medicines, such as antiretrovirals and tuberculosis treatments, according to a BMI report.

Pharmaceutical imports are expected to grow from $761m in 2024 to $920m by 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% in US dollar terms. Imports account for 90% of the market share.

Meanwhile, exports are anticipated to rise from $328m to $360m during the forecast period at a CAGR of 1.8% in US dollar terms.

The lack of government incentives to attract foreign direct investment and an underdeveloped regulatory environment will also limit domestic medicine manufacturing development.

“Pakistan continues to lack both the infrastructure and trained workforce necessary for pharmaceutical self-sufficiency in the near to medium term,” the report said.