DRAP announces 2D barcoding and serialization

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has made 2D barcoding and serialisation compulsory for every pharmaceutical product, whether made domestically or imported, from October 9, 2026. Business Recorder reported that the regulator announced the requirement through an official communique. It forms the first phase of a track-and-trace system that DRAP has developed and introduced.

The regulator said the scheme is part of its National Regulatory System plan for 2026-30 and aims to curb counterfeit, falsified and unregistered medicines while improving recalls and real-time supply chain visibility. DRAP held policy dialogues with industry bodies such as the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association and the Pharma Bureau, and it ran nationwide workshops and hands-on training sessions. Guidelines on data matrix barcodes and serialisation, along with video tutorials, have also been published.

Batches with a manufacturing date before October 9, 2026 are exempt and can still be imported, distributed and sold. Manufacturers and importers must follow the technical parameters set out in the rules, and non-compliance will lead to legal action under the relevant legislation.