KARACHI: The government has decided to maintain its policy of deregulating medicine prices, arguing that the move has improved supply and reduced shortages, even as patients complain of steadily rising costs.
Officials say a recent review by the federal health ministry and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan found that the policy — introduced in late 2023 — has helped stabilise the market. Under the current framework, prices of non-essential medicines remain deregulated, while essential and life-saving drugs continue to be capped by the government.
A senior official said assessments showed fewer supply disruptions compared to previous years, when strict price controls made it difficult for manufacturers to sustain production amid inflation, currency depreciation and rising input costs. In some cases, companies reduced or halted production of low-margin medicines, leading to widespread shortages. Deregulation, the official said, was meant to correct those imbalances.
However, patients say the financial burden has grown heavier. Irfan Nasir, who takes the anti-hypertensive drug Telmisartan, said his monthly expenses have climbed consistently for more than two years. “Almost every third or fourth week, I end up paying more than the last time,” he said.
Last year, authorities acknowledged that prices of over 100 commonly used medicines had increased by an average of 32 per cent since February 2024 after the caretaker government eased controls, prompting concerns within official circles and demands for explanations from pharmaceutical firms.
Health officials concede that affordability remains a serious concern, particularly for patients requiring long-term treatment. While reports from Sindh drug regulators and hospital pharmacies indicate a decline in stock-out complaints, authorities say regulatory oversight and targeted interventions may be needed to address price pressures.
Pharmaceutical retailers have backed the policy, saying it restored market confidence and ensured availability. Abdul Samad Budhani, chairman of the Pakistan Chemists and Druggists Association, said deregulation had helped stabilise supplies but noted that price relief was more urgently needed for essential medicines, where approvals had not been granted.
Consumer advocates remain wary. Shakeel Baig of the Consumer Rights Council of Pakistan called for a balanced mechanism that protects both industry sustainability and consumers’ interests, while ensuring the government remains impartial.