Iran Steps In to Fill Pakistan’s Drug Gap in Afghanistan

DID Press: Following a complete halt in medicine imports from Pakistan, Taliban government announced expanded cooperation with Iranian pharmaceutical companies to meet Afghanistan’s healthcare needs.

Noor Jalal Jalali, Taliban acting Minister of Public Health, said the shortage of medicines in Afghanistan medical centers will be addressed through imports of Iranian-produced drugs. Previously, about 65 percent of Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical supply came from Pakistan, but that channel has been fully closed in the past two months.

Jalali emphasized that Afghanistan, which relies on imports for 90 percent of its medicines, must find alternative sources to ensure patients’ access to essential drugs.

The minister highlighted Iran’s pharmaceutical production capacity, noting that contracts have been signed with major Iranian companies, with special arrangements to facilitate drug transfers, reduce customs duties, and speed up import processes. Taliban officials said these measures aim to prevent a healthcare crisis and maintain patient access to medicines.

According to Arya News Afghanistan, Iran currently leads drug production in the Middle East and can supply a substantial portion of Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical market, which is estimated at around $400 million annually.