RAWALPINDI ( WNAM REPORT )The two-day Health Expo and Summit being organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has begn, attracting significant participation from government officials, foreign diplomats, and industry stakeholders. The event was graced by the Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, and the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas, along with a large number of foreign ambassadors at Pak China Friendship Center Islamabad.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Bilal Azhar Kayani emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the business community. “The government’s role is to provide facilitation, while business growth is the responsibility of the private sector. Concerns of the business community regarding controversial clauses in the Finance Bill will soon be addressed. Proposals from RCCI will be incorporated into policy-making to enhance trade, business development, and exports,” he stated.
Mr. Sardar Yasir Ilyas highlighted the vast potential of tourism in Pakistan, particularly medical tourism, which can significantly contribute to economic growth.
The primary objective of the Health Expo is to assess the export potential of Pakistan’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors while addressing key challenges faced by the industry. Over 25 stalls related to pharmaceuticals and medical products have been set up, attracting visits from ambassadors, high commissioners, and trade attachés from countries including Ethiopia, Syria, Azerbaijan, USA, Czech Republic and Morocco, who praised the quality of Pakistani products.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat underscored the immense export potential of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry, citing the country’s capability to manufacture advanced medicines, availability of skilled workforce, and the rising global demand for affordable drugs. “Pakistan is recognized for producing high-quality generic medicines at competitive prices, making them attractive to international markets,” he said. However, he also noted that regulatory barriers, lack of research and development, and stiff global competition hinder the sector from realizing its full potential.
Mr. Shaukat stressed the need to strengthen the pharmaceutical regulatory framework to ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicines, while addressing the growing issue of counterfeit and substandard drugs.
The Health Expo also offers various free health services and screenings, including diabetes tests, dental and eye check-ups, fitness sessions (including yoga), mental health awareness programs, and healthy weight management consultations by renowned health and wellness experts.
