Pakistan Proposes to Fully Eliminate Customs Duty on Raw Materials for Over 100 Types of Cancer and Other Medicines

Islamabad – In a major relief measure for the pharmaceutical sector and patients, Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has proposed the complete removal of customs duties on raw materials used in the local production of over 100 types of medicines, including critical cancer drugs and treatments for other complex diseases.
The proposal, part of the upcoming federal budget 2026-27, aims to reduce production costs for the pharmaceutical industry. Lower manufacturing expenses are expected to translate into reduced prices for essential medicines, providing significant relief to patients suffering from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.be808e
According to the Finance Minister, this step will boost local drug manufacturing, enhance availability of quality medicines, and decrease reliance on expensive imports. The initiative falls under the National Tariff Policy 2025-30 and targets active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other essential raw materials not sufficiently produced domestically.
Health experts and industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, saying it will make cancer treatment and medicines for chronic diseases more affordable for the common man. The government expects this exemption to encourage investment in local pharma production and strengthen the country’s self-reliance in the health sector.
This proposal is part of broader efforts in the budget to support essential sectors, improve access to healthcare, and ease the economic burden on citizens. Final approval will come during the budget presentation.