by In a major milestone for Pakistan’s economy and industrial growth, the pharmaceutical sector has achieved record-breaking exports of $457 million in the fiscal year 2024-25 (FY25), according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). This historic performance marks a significant leap in the country’s journey toward becoming a key player in the global healthcare market.
A Booming Industry on the Rise
Pakistan’s pharmaceutical exports have steadily gained momentum in recent years, but FY25 stands out as the most impressive year to date — both in terms of volume and revenue. Industry experts credit this surge to improved manufacturing standards, international certifications, expansion into new markets, and strong government support for the sector.
The previous fiscal year (FY24) saw exports totaling around $365 million, meaning the industry has posted an impressive 25% year-on-year growth.
Pakistan’s Pharma Sector Delivers Record-Breaking $457 Million in Exports for FY25 Pakistan’s Pharma Sector Delivers Record-Breaking $457 Million in Exports for FY25.
Key Drivers Behind the Growth
- Compliance with Global Standards
Many Pakistani pharma companies have upgraded their facilities to comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and have earned certifications from regulatory bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US FDA, allowing access to more regulated and lucrative markets. - Expansion into African, Central Asian & Middle Eastern Markets
The industry’s proactive push into non-traditional export destinations — including Kenya, Nigeria, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE — has broadened its reach and reduced dependency on a few key markets. - Value-Added Products
Exporters are moving beyond basic generics to include specialized medicines, biotech products, and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), enhancing the value of each shipment. - Government Incentives
Through policy reforms, tax incentives, and facilitation by Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), the government has provided a more export-friendly environment.
Industry Reactions
Dr. Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA), commented:
“This is not just a number — it’s a statement. Pakistan’s pharmaceutical sector is no longer a domestic industry; it’s a global contender. We now aim to cross the $1 billion export mark within the next few years.”
Challenges That Remain
Despite this success, the pharma industry still faces hurdles such as:
- Regulatory Delays: Slow approvals for drug registrations and exports can still be a bottleneck.
- Raw Material Dependency: A large share of raw materials is still imported, primarily from China and India, making the sector vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.
- Limited R&D Funding: Innovation is crucial, and increased investment in research and development is needed to keep pace with international competitors.
The Road Ahead
The government, in collaboration with private stakeholders, is reportedly working on a Pharma Export Strategy 2025-2030, which will focus on:
- Establishing pharmaceutical export zones
- Encouraging public-private R&D partnerships
- Developing a local API industry
- Strengthening international trade linkages and branding
Bottom Line:
