Getz Pharma’s Astola Plant Wins WHO Recognition, Boosting Pakistan’s Pharmaceutical Export Potential
Getz Pharma Achieves WHO Prequalification for Astola Manufacturing Facility
Pakistan’s leading pharmaceutical company, Getz Pharma, has secured World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification for its Astola manufacturing facility in Karachi, marking a significant milestone for the country’s pharmaceutical industry. Executive Chairman Khalid Mahmood announced the achievement during an event attended by hundreds of physicians, surgeons and healthcare professionals. The development makes Astola the company’s second WHO-prequalified production facility, following the recognition of its first manufacturing plant in 2017.
WHO Recognition Strengthens Pakistan’s Pharmaceutical Industry
Khalid Mahmood said the WHO recognition reflects Pakistan’s ability to manufacture safe, effective and affordable medicines that meet international quality standards. He described the achievement as a national milestone that would strengthen global confidence in Pakistani medicines and create new opportunities for pharmaceutical exports. He added that the Astola facility took 12 years to design and complete, became operational in 2022 and comprises six manufacturing facilities catering to different therapeutic categories.
Getz Pharma Exports Medicines to More Than 45 Countries
Getz Pharma Deputy Managing Director Zeeshan Ahmed said the company exports medicines to more than 45 countries and accounts for approximately 50 percent of Pakistan’s total pharmaceutical exports. He noted that the latest WHO prequalification would help expand access to international markets, particularly countries with stringent regulatory requirements. He also highlighted the company’s continued investment in modern manufacturing technology, quality assurance systems and skilled professionals to strengthen its global competitiveness.
Getz Pharma Maintains International Manufacturing Standards
Established in 1995, Getz Pharma has a portfolio of more than 300 products and a presence in over 45 countries, according to the Pakistan Credit Rating Agency. The company stated that it is Pakistan’s only pharmaceutical company to have achieved both WHO prequalification and Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) recognition. Healthcare professionals, including bariatric surgeon Dr Fahad Mirza and members of the Pakistan Aesthetic Surgery Society, also congratulated the company, describing the achievement as a boost to confidence in locally manufactured medicines.
