Taliban Health Authority in Nimroz Bans Sale and Use of Pakistani Medicines
The Taliban’s Public Health Directorate in Nimroz province has announced a complete ban on the use, purchase, sale, and transfer of medicines imported from Pakistan. Officials from this department have warned pharmacies, health centers, and residents to refrain from using or keeping these drugs. Otherwise, any discovered Pakistani medicines will be collected and destroyed.
According to media outlets affiliated with the Taliban administration, after official restrictions on the import of Pakistani medicines, some of these drugs have been smuggled into local Afghan markets. This move comes as the Taliban administration had previously started collecting Pakistani medicines in certain areas.
Despite these bans, published reports indicate that patients, especially those suffering from chronic illnesses, are facing difficulties in obtaining alternative medications, resulting in limited access to necessary drugs.
Prior to the full enforcement of this ban, the Taliban Ministry of Public Health announced on January 20, 2026, the formation of a committee to gradually phase out Pakistani medicines. The ministry emphasized that this process should align with market needs and the capacity of the country’s health system. However, no precise reports on the proper implementation of this policy have been received so far.
