ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has accelerated plans to launch local vaccine manufacturing, with a senior Saudi delegation arriving on Monday to advance technical cooperation and investment in the health sector, officials said.
The Ministry of National Health Services said the 11-member Saudi team will hold meetings with Pakistani authorities to explore practical steps toward setting up domestic vaccine production facilities.
Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal said the visit follows multiple engagements with Saudi counterparts over recent months, including discussions on pharmaceutical manufacturing, industrial collaboration and technology transfer. Focal persons from both sides have been appointed to ensure coordination and implementation.
“The delegation’s visit marks an important step toward translating vaccine manufacturing plans into action,” Kamal said in a statement.
He added that local production would help Pakistan meet its national immunisation needs while creating surplus capacity for exports, supporting economic growth and reducing reliance on imported vaccines.
Pakistan currently imports all vaccines used in nationwide immunisation programmes, which cover diseases including polio, measles, rubella and hepatitis. Officials say domestic manufacturing would help save foreign exchange and shorten procurement timelines.
The ministry said both countries are also exploring broader cooperation in healthcare infrastructure and pharmaceutical investment, as Islamabad seeks to strengthen its public health system and build local production capacity.
Pakistan has a population of more than 240 million and conducts regular mass vaccination campaigns across the country.
