Pakistan Produces More Population Than New Zealand Every Year, Says Health Minister Mustafa Kamal

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal has said that Pakistan’s population has exceeded 260 million and is growing at an alarming pace, with the country adding more people each year than the entire population of New Zealand.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Mustafa Kamal said Pakistan is projected to become the world’s fourth most populous country by 2030. He noted that the rapid population growth has surprised many around the world and presents significant challenges and opportunities for the country.

Speaking about the two-day Pakistan-China Pharmaceutical and Healthcare B2B Investment Conference held in Islamabad, the minister said that 240 delegations participated in the event, including representatives from 140 Chinese companies. A total of 340 bilateral business meetings were held, while 22 companies signed investment agreements.

He said agreements worth $629.5 million were signed during the conference. The government is now in discussions with the participating companies to ensure that these agreements are translated into practical projects on the ground.

Mustafa Kamal further stated that Pakistan currently administers 13 types of vaccines, all of which are imported. He announced that the country’s first vaccine policy document has been prepared as part of efforts to strengthen local vaccine production.

The health minister added that Pakistan manufactures 85 percent of its medicines domestically; however, 95 percent of the raw materials used in pharmaceutical production are still imported. He emphasized the need to promote local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports to strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.