Russian Drugmaker to Launch Pharmaceutical Exports to Afghanistan

DID Press: Russian pharmaceutical company Pharmasyntez has announced plans to begin exporting medicines to Afghanistan within the next two months following an agreement with the Taliban-run Ministry of Public Health, amid ongoing concerns over drug shortages in the country.

According to the company, the first pharmaceutical shipments will be dispatched after arrangements reached with Afghan health authorities. Nikita Ponya said demand for Russian medicines has been rising in several international markets and that entering Afghanistan could strengthen the company’s regional presence.

The company has not yet disclosed details about the types of medicines that will be included in the initial exports.

Pharmasyntez currently exports pharmaceutical products to 13 countries, including Syria, Myanmar, and Dominican Republic. It plans to expand into additional markets in 2026, including Afghanistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, Morocco, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ecuador, and Mali.

The company produces more than 300 pharmaceutical products and 60 active pharmaceutical ingredients, with over 80% of its portfolio included on Russia’s list of essential medicines.

The announcement comes as Afghanistan faces significant shortages of medicines following disruptions in trade routes. Reduced commercial exchanges between the Taliban and Pakistan—a key source and transit route for pharmaceutical imports—have contributed to rising prices and limited availability of some essential drugs.