Pakistan makes 2D barcodes mandatory to curb counterfeit medicines

According to Mettis Link News, the government has now made 2D barcodes and serialisation compulsory for pharmaceutical products produced or brought into the country from October 9. The move is aimed at reducing counterfeit medicines and improving visibility across the drug supply chain. The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) set out the requirement in a notification under amended labelling and packaging rules, issued as S.R.O. 963(I)/2026.

Batches produced or brought in before October 9 are exempt and can still be imported, distributed and sold. Each product needs a distinct two-dimensional Data Matrix code plus a serial number, which DRAP says is intended to track goods, ease recalls and stop fake or unregistered medicines from circulating. Firms that fall short of the technical parameters in the rules may face legal proceedings, DRAP added.

DRAP said it consulted industry bodies such as the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers' Association and Pharma Bureau, along with importers. It also ran technical sessions, workshops and nationwide training roadshows, and released guidance with video tutorials for firms. This initiative sits within a wider 2026-30 strategy for the national regulatory system, which intends to update medicine oversight and move drug regulation online.