Health sector experts and importers have warned that Pakistan may soon face shortages of important medicines if the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States of America continues to disturb international transport routes. The disruption has already affected global flight operations and cargo movement, making it harder for Pakistan to receive medical supplies from abroad.

A report said the suspension of several international flights has started impacting the import of medicines, pharmaceutical raw materials and vaccines. Importers say the situation could become serious if the conflict lasts longer, as delays in shipments can slow down the production of medicines inside the country.

Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry currently has raw material stocks that can last only around one and a half to two months. Industry representatives say the country relies heavily on imported materials to produce medicines locally, leaving it vulnerable to international disruptions.

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According to industry estimates, about 55 percent to 60 percent of pharmaceutical raw materials used in Pakistan come from India, while around 40 percent to 45 percent are imported from China. Any disturbance in global transport routes or trade flows can therefore quickly affect medicine production in the country.

Mohammad Atif Hanif Baloch warned that the impact is already being felt in the market. He said prices of life-saving medicines have started increasing unofficially and could rise even further if the conflict continues.

He warned that drugs used for cancer treatment, diabetes care, insulin and heart diseases may become significantly more expensive in the coming weeks. These medicines are critical for thousands of patients across the country, and price increases could make treatment difficult for many families.

Healthcare experts also pointed out another major concern. Pakistan depends heavily on imported baby formula and certain vaccines. If supply routes passing through Gulf countries remain disrupted for a long time, these essential products could also become scarce.

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Experts say that a shortage of vaccines or baby nutrition products would put additional pressure on Pakistan’s healthcare system.

Many importers and health officials are now closely monitoring the global situation. They believe that even temporary disruptions in international cargo flights can quickly affect supply chains for medicines and medical products.