Karachi, April 28, 2026: In a landmark achievement for Pakistan’s drug regulatory system, the Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi has secured prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a major milestone for the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
With this certification, CDL joins an elite group of global laboratories authorized to test medicines for WHO procurement. It can now also evaluate WHO-prequalified drugs, with its test reports recognized internationally—significantly enhancing Pakistan’s credibility in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
The achievement is being seen as a reflection of the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and sustained efforts by DRAP leadership. CEO DRAP Dr. Obaidullah congratulated Director Quality Assurance and Laboratory Testing Zeshan Nazir and the CDL team for reaching this milestone.
Dr. Saif Ur Rehman Khattak, Director CDL Karachi, was also acknowledged for his role in achieving the international recognition.
Officials say the development strengthens Pakistan’s National Regulatory System and reinforces confidence in “Made in Pakistan” therapeutic goods, ensuring medicines are tested to the highest global standards.
