Pakistan’s drug regulator has denied reports of recent increases in medicine prices, calling the claims factually incorrect. The authority said no new price hikes have been approved for essential medicines and manufacturers are prohibited from unilaterally raising prices for products listed on the National Essential Medicines List.

The clarification comes amid concerns over global energy and cargo disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has affected shipping routes in the Gulf region. Some stakeholders had reported sharp price increases since February, including for certain insulin delivery devices, but officials said these figures reflected previously printed maximum retail prices rather than new adjustments.

The regulator stated that about 85 percent of medicines consumed in Pakistan are produced locally and are not affected by regional airspace or sea route disruptions. It added that a comprehensive review found the supply chain for medicines and medical devices satisfactory for the coming months, with manufacturers advised to adopt contingency planning and diversify sourcing channels to ensure stability.