DRAP advises pharma firms to diversify raw material sources amid global supply concerns

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has advised pharmaceutical manufacturers and importers to secure multiple sources of raw materials and maintain adequate inventories to avoid potential medicine shortages amid disruptions in global supply chains.

In an advisory issued Monday, DRAP directed companies producing or importing therapeutic goods to adopt diversified sourcing strategies for active pharmaceutical ingredients, drug substances, excipients and other key materials.

The regulator warned that evolving geopolitical developments could disrupt international shipping and affect access to medicines and medical technologies.

DRAP said it is closely monitoring the availability of essential therapeutic goods and instructed manufacturers to reduce dependence on single suppliers by establishing sourcing channels from multiple regions.

Companies were also directed to maintain buffer stocks of raw materials and finished pharmaceutical products to manage potential delays in shipments or supply interruptions.

The advisory further asked firms to regularly assess the reliability of suppliers, develop contingency sourcing plans and improve product tracking systems to monitor supply and anticipate demand.

DRAP also instructed manufacturers and importers to comply with directions issued by federal and provincial authorities in case medicines need to be prioritised for government institutions during emergencies.

Industry representatives, however, said Pakistan currently faces no immediate risk of medicine shortages.