ISLAMABAD : The federal cabinet on Wednesday approved a five-year extension of the exemption on the import of life-saving medicines, including anti-cancer and cardiac drugs, to ensure their uninterrupted availability in hospitals and authorized health institutions.
The decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following recommendations from the Ministry of National Health Services.
The exemption covers vital medications used for the treatment of cancer, heart disease, and other critical conditions. Officials emphasized that the move aims to support patients in need of life-saving treatment by reducing costs and improving timely access to essential drugs.
These medicines will only be supplied to registered hospitals and authorized healthcare institutions. Their sale in the open market will remain strictly prohibited. Furthermore, importers must obtain prior approval from the relevant licensing authority to bring these drugs into the country.
The cabinet reiterated its commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare system and providing relief to patients suffering from life-threatening diseases. The five-year extension is expected to significantly aid public and private hospitals in delivering affordable and effective treatment.
This step is part of broader healthcare reforms aimed at improving access to quality care across the country.
