Pakistan operates a structured product compliance system that includes mandatory technical regulations, product registration, and conformity certification for a broad range of consumer and industrial goods. The framework incorporates Pakistan Standards (PS), and in many sectors aligns with ISO, IEC, and other international standards.

Key Authorities:

• Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) – Develops Pakistan Standards (PS), enforces compulsory certification, and conducts market surveillance.

• Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) – Regulates pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and health supplements, including licensing and registration.

• Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) – Manages type approval and compliance of telecom and wireless devices.

• Pakistan Customs – Ensures compliance at the border, including checking for product registration, certifications, and safety documentation.

Key Compliance Elements:

• PSQCA Certification:

  • Mandatory for over 100 product categories including:

    • Electrical appliances

    • Cement and construction materials

    • Food products

    • Bottled water

  • Requires:

    • Local testing at a PSQCA-recognized lab

    • Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

    • Labeling in Urdu and/or English

• DRAP Product Registration:

  • Required for:

    • Medicines and vaccines

    • Medical devices and diagnostics

    • Nutraceuticals, food supplements, and cosmetics

  • Requires:

    • Product dossier (safety, efficacy)

    • GMP or ISO certification

    • Samples and Certificate of Free Sale

    • Local authorized agent

• Telecom Type Approval (PTA):

  • All telecom, wireless, and RF devices must be type approved.

  • Requires:

    • CE/FCC test reports (as supporting documents)

    • Technical specifications

    • User manuals

    • Submission via local representative

  • Approved models are listed publicly on PTA’s website.

• Labeling Requirements:

  • Labels must be in Urdu and/or English, and include:

    • Product name

    • Country of origin

    • Manufacturer/importer contact

    • Instructions for use and safety warnings

    • Expiry/batch number (for health-related goods)

    • Certification or registration number (if applicable)

• Import Oversight:

  • Importers must provide:

    • PSQCA certification (for regulated goods)

    • DRAP registration certificate (if applicable)

    • PTA type approval (for RF/telecom equipment)

    • Invoice and packing list

    • Certificate of origin

• Market Surveillance:

Conducted by PSQCA, DRAP, and PTA, often involving sampling and retail inspections. Non-compliant goods can be seized, fined, or banned.