Pakistan’s pharmaceutical regulatory system has received a significant boost as the Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi, operating under the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), has secured prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Officials said the recognition allows the laboratory to test medicines in accordance with internationally accepted standards, ensuring compliance with global benchmarks for quality, safety, and efficacy.
DRAP Chief Executive Officer Dr. Obaidullah said the development marks a key milestone for the country’s regulatory framework and reflects growing capacity to ensure medicines meet international standards.
He said the prequalification follows a rigorous evaluation of the laboratory’s systems, technical capabilities, and compliance with global protocols, including ISO-certified testing standards.
Officials said the CDL Karachi is equipped to test a wide range of pharmaceutical products, including conventional medicines and biologicals. They said the recognition places Pakistan among a limited number of countries with nationally approved laboratories capable of conducting internationally credible drug testing.
Officials added that the development is expected to reduce reliance on foreign laboratories, strengthen regulatory oversight, and improve the credibility of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector in international markets. They said improved quality assurance could also support growth in pharmaceutical exports by increasing global acceptance of locally manufactured medicines.