Many public sector medical universities in Pakistan lack Clinical Trials Units,
reflecting their limited interest in research
KARACHI: Aga Khan University, in collaboration with the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), successfully organized the Pakistan Clinical Trials Summit from February 17th to 18th 2025. The summit attracted researchers from various countries and included representatives from Clinical Trials Units at medical institutions both domestically and internationally, as well as representatives from Clinical Research Organizations and regulatory bodies, such as the Drugs Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). Representatives from Clinical Trials Units in Pakistan also presented their reports and highlighted their accomplishments.
The speakers included representatives from Aga Khan University, Dow University of Health Sciences, Ziauddin Medical University, Shifa International Hospital Islamabad, NUMS Rawalpindi, Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital Rawalpindi, Khyber Medical University and Rehman Medical Institute Peshawar. However, there was no representation from most public sector medical universities, as they do not have Clinical Trials Units, which further reflects their lack of commitment to research. Clinical Trials Units are crucial in generating revenue for these institutions, reducing their dependence on government funding. Unfortunately, it seems that those in charge of these universities have yet to realize the importance of establishing such units.
Currently, China is the global leader in clinical and pharmaceutical research, holding a 29% share of the market, followed by the United States with 25%, and India with 8%. China has become a hub for clinical trials due to its relaxed regulatory framework, streamlined approval processes, and innovative strategies. It has also aligned its policies with global best practices and adopted innovative patient recruitment strategies. As a result, pharmaceutical companies from around the world are flocking to China to conduct trials, solidifying the country’s dominance. To further encourage pharmaceutical trials, the Australian government has introduced tax incentives to attract global pharmaceutical firms to conduct trials in the country. Consequently, Australia has emerged as another preferred destination for pharmaceutical research, including clinical trials.
Pakistan’s contribution to global clinical trials remains disappointing for several reasons. As mentioned, many of our medical universities have shown little interest in research and have failed to establish Clinical Trials Units. To improve this situation, we must focus on training clinical trialists, properly equipping and staffing research facilities, and speeding up the approval process through the National Bioethics Committee (NBC) and DRAP. For pharmaceutical companies, the speed at which regulatory and ethical approvals are granted is crucial for their investment in clinical trials. Delays in approval or patient recruitment leads to higher costs and lost opportunities. The Government of Pakistan, along with the concerned organizations like NBC and DRAP, must collaborate closely and establish clear timelines for decision-making and implementation.
Another area that requires attention is the need to address misconceptions about clinical trials, a challenge faced by many developing countries. This issue can be tackled through awareness campaigns that emphasize the safety measures in place to protect participants in these trials. To attract more pharmaceutical research and clinical trials, it is vital that we establish well-equipped and well-staffed Clinical Trials Units that meet international quality standards. Furthermore, the selection of Vice Chancellors, Deans, and heads of medical institutions should prioritize their interest in research, scientific publications, and their ability to secure research funding. By establishing “Friends of” organizations for these institutions, significant resources can be generated, including donations from philanthropists and members of civil society. Establishing the credibility of these institutions is of utmost importance.
