Afghan Traders Sign Deal to Import Pharmaceuticals from Bangladesh

In a significant development, Afghan traders have signed an agreement with major Bangladeshi pharmaceutical companies to import medicines directly from Bangladesh, marking a strategic shift in Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical supply chain. This deal comes as Afghanistan prepares to halt the customs clearance of medicines imported from Pakistan after the expiration of a 19-day grace period.

The agreement was formalized during a visit to Dhaka by a delegation led by Mawlawi Ahmadullah Zahid, Afghanistan's Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry. The delegation visited two of Bangladesh’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturers — BEXIMCO Pharmaceuticals Ltd and RENATA PLC, both of which have a broad international presence, exporting medicines to around 50 countries.

Under the agreement, Afghan traders will now enter into direct contracts with Bangladeshi producers to supply essential medicines to the Afghan market. This move is expected to reduce Afghanistan’s reliance on Pakistan for pharmaceuticals.

During the visit, Mawlawi Zahid also invited Bangladeshi investors to consider establishing pharmaceutical production facilities within Afghanistan, highlighting the country’s improved security and the government's support for industrial development and investment.

Dr. Naimullah Ayoubi, Director General of the Regulation of Medicines and Health Products at Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health, assured Bangladeshi manufacturers of full cooperation in compliance with the country’s regulations.

This agreement comes in response to Afghan authorities' decision to stop clearing medicines imported from Pakistan, forcing traders to look for alternative sources to ensure a stable supply of essential drugs in Afghanistan.