SSF Pushes for Local Medical Device Manufacturing

The Saman e Shifa Foundation is committed

to ensuring accessible healing for all

said Chairman Professor Dr. Shahid Noor

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Saman e Shifa Foundation is committed to ensuring accessible healing for all, said Chairman Professor Dr. Shahid Noor at the 3-day 21st Annual Health Asia Expo Conference held at the Expo Center Karachi.

Over 500 national and international companies participated in the event, showcasing a range of medical devices, surgical instruments, hospital equipment, pharmaceutical products, and more. The expo aimed to promote locally manufactured medical devices and healthcare products in Pakistan.

Calls for Policy Reform to Support Local Manufacturing

During the 3rd Annual Conference of Saman e Shifa Foundation, Dr. Shahid Noor emphasized the importance of developing Pakistan’s medical device industry. He highlighted the challenges faced by manufacturers due to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) regulations, which impose taxes on raw materials but not on finished devices. He suggested that this policy hampers the growth of the local industry.

Dr. Noor revealed that Pakistan imports medical devices worth $2 billion annually. He called for business-friendly policies to support local manufacturers, suggesting the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Technology Zones where raw materials could be tax-exempt. This, he said, would boost exports and stabilize the country’s economy, while also creating employment opportunities.

Prominent Figures at the Event

Notable attendees included Abdul Bari Khan, Dr. Syed Tipu Sultan, Naeem Khanani, Syed Omer Ahmad (Chairman HDAP), Zubair Motiwala (CEO TDAP), Adnan A. Siddiqui (CEO Medilution Healthcare), Dr. Fouzia Sadiq, and other medical professionals. Medical students also participated in large numbers, underlining the significance of the event for future healthcare professionals.

Dr. Noor’s vision for a thriving medical device industry in Pakistan aligns with the foundation’s goal of providing affordable treatment options and contributing to the country’s economic development.