Pakistan approves first-ever National Vaccine Policy, paving way for local production

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, on Wednesday announced that the federal cabinet has approved Pakistan’s first-ever National Vaccine Policy, marking a major step toward domestic vaccine production and healthcare self-reliance.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister described the move as a milestone in strengthening the country’s healthcare system, noting that Pakistan previously lacked a comprehensive national framework for vaccines. The newly approved policy, he said, was formulated after extensive consultations with key stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and effective approach.

Kamal highlighted the contributions of Haroon Akhtar Khan, Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan in shaping the policy.

He stressed that building local vaccine production capacity has become essential for Pakistan, particularly in light of global health challenges, adding that the initiative would reduce reliance on imports and enhance the country’s ability to respond to future health emergencies.

The policy is expected to lay the foundation for a robust vaccine ecosystem, enabling Pakistan to strengthen immunization programs, improve supply chain resilience, and move toward greater self-sufficiency in the health sector.