Overview
- DRAP has implemented a phased pharmaceutical track‑and‑trace system that requires unique 2D Data Matrix codes and serial numbers on registered drugs produced or brought into Pakistan under its amended labelling rules.
- The rule is part of DRAP’s National Regulatory System 2026–30 reforms and links serialization to the authority’s e‑Services portal for serial generation and verification.
- Manufacturers and importers were given technical guidance, nationwide workshops and video tutorials to help onboard to the system, and DRAP published detailed Data Matrix and serialization guidelines.
- DRAP clarified that batches already produced or imported before the rollout remain permitted for sale, and warned that failure to meet the prescribed technical parameters could result in legal action.
- The measure is designed to reduce counterfeit and unregistered medicines, enable faster integrated product recalls, and may force packaging and IT changes that raise short‑term costs for makers and distributors.