Pakistan Strives for Vaccine Independence Amidst International Strife

Pakistan faces economic strain from halted vaccine supply due to conflicts with India. The country plans local production to offset rising import costs set to surge by 2031. GAVI previously facilitated vaccine imports from India, but international support will soon end. Steps for vaccine self-sufficiency are underway.

Amid geopolitical tensions, Pakistan grapples with a severe economic impact due to halted vaccine supplies previously sourced from India, as revealed by Health Minister Mustafa Kamal on Saturday.

Through the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI), Pakistan procured affordable vaccines. Yet, conflict since May 2025 has strained access, pushing Pakistan to cover 51% of costs and threatening an annual import bill hitting USD 1.2 billion by 2031 if local production doesn't commence.

With GAVI's support waning by 2031, Pakistan's fifth-largest global populace demands a shift toward vaccine independence. The government has launched preparatory endeavors to mitigate this looming fiscal challenge, aiming to achieve self-sufficiency in vaccine manufacturing.

(With inputs from agencies.)