Pakistan’s Veterinary Pharmaceutical Industry Faces Severe Regulatory Crisis, requires a separate Directorate in DRAP

Pakistan’s veterinary pharmaceutical industry is facing a major regulatory crisis. The main reason is the lack of strong regulations and the absence of a dedicated veterinary directorate in DRAP, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). A media statement has been issued by the Pakistan Veterinary Pharmaceuticals Association – PVPA.

Maj (R) Syed Javed Hussain Bukhari, spokesperson for the Pakistan Veterinary Pharmaceuticals Association (PVPA), says a regulatory vacuum has created serious risks. Fake and substandard veterinary drugs are now widely available. Deadly animal diseases are spreading fast. The damage to food security and export potential is increasing every day.

He says the sector is worth more than Rs14 trillion annually. It supports over 500,000 livestock farms and more than 1,000 manufacturing units. Yet, it still operates under “weak and unscientific regulations”. These issues have left the entire industry vulnerable.

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Veterinary Pharmaceutical Industry in Developed Countries

Mr. Bukhari adds that developed countries—like the US, UK, Europe and China—have separate, fully empowered bodies for veterinary and human pharmaceuticals. Their scientists, experts, and public health professionals take part at every stage, from policy-making to drug approval and quality assurance. Because of this, their disease control systems and drug standards are recognised around the world.

Requirements of the Separate Veterinary Directorate in DRAP

In Pakistan, however, all technical and legal matters are handled under a single authority. This arrangement keeps the veterinary sector stagnant and exposed to risks. Maj (R) Syed Javed Hussain Bukhari said that establishing a dedicated directorate inside DRAP is now a national need. It will help stabilise the industry and align Pakistan with global food safety and public health standards. Strong research and an effective quality-control system are essential. These steps will help protect public health, improve exports, and secure the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of farm workers.

Veterinary Pharmaceutical Industry in Pakistan 

He warns that the current crisis requires immediate reforms. Without action, the country’s economy, food security, and the future of millions of people may face serious and permanent damage. He calls this a wake-up call for policymakers and society, stressing that the window for change is closing fast.

Editor In Chief

Dr. Jassar Aftab is a qualified Veterinarian having expertise in veterinary communication. He is a renowned veterinary Journalist of Pakistan. He is veterinary columnist, veterinary writer and veterinary analyst. He is the author of three books. He has written a number of articles and columns on different topics related to livestock, dairy, poultry, wildlife, fisheries, food security and different aspects of animal sciences and veterinary education.

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