KARACHI: Pakistan on Monday launched its first locally-made ventilator, achieving a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward technological independence.
Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, inaugurated the ventilator in Karachi.
Last month, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) approved the ‘AlnnoVent’ ventilator, developed by Alsons Group in Karachi. After successfully passing clinical trials, the ventilator has now been officially licenced for production.
The AlnnoVent AVB-100 is an advanced electro-mechanical ICU ventilator, meticulously designed, and developed to meet stringent international quality and performance standards. It features a versatile range of functions, including five invasive and two non-invasive ventilation modes, making it adaptable for various critical care situations.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of Pakistan’s healthcare and technology sectors. Specifically designed to cater to the needs of elderly patients, the ‘AlnnoVent’ ventilator has a shelf life of five years.
In addition to meeting local medical requirements, these ventilators are set to be exported, boosting the country’s economy.
Pakistan to compete with rapidly evolving world
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal praised the company for its efforts, emphasising that Pakistan needs more such champions to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
“We require an army of such individuals – people who combine skill, hard work, ambition, and the intelligence that defines our nation,” he said.
He called for a collective effort to restore Pakistan’s global reputation, urging the nation to look toward the future and focus on its strengths.
He noted that Pakistan’s future narrative is crucial as the country approaches 2047, its 100th year of independence.
Highlighting the significance of technological advancement and innovation, Ahsan Iqbal explained that the world is now entering the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and even discussions about a Fifth Industrial Revolution are underway. He said that Pakistan must position itself as a key player in this technological era, where success depends on economic agility and innovation.
Ahsan Iqbal urged the private sector to take the lead in driving Pakistan’s future economic growth, assuring them of the government’s support for enterprises that create products capable of competing in international markets. “You are the drivers of Pakistan’s future,” he said, “and the government will stand behind every private sector initiative that helps bring in exports and dollars.”
He emphasised that Pakistan’s economic success is tied to its ability to innovate and produce new products, which will help the country transition away from its reliance on imports and toward a more export-oriented economy.
He encouraged the younger generation to embrace innovation and technology to help Pakistan compete on the global stage.
Export of ventilators to generate valuable foreign exchange
Earlier DRAP CEO Dr. Asim Rauf had stressed the importance of supporting locally manufactured medicines and medical devices. He emphasised that the export of ventilators like ‘AlnnoVent’ will generate valuable foreign exchange and enhance Pakistan’s position as a competitive player in the global medical technology market.
“The success of Made in Pakistan medical devices showcases our growing technological expertise and commitment to innovation,” said Dr. Rauf.
This is not Pakistan’s first such achievement. In 2021, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) registered the country’s first domestically developed ICU ventilator, ‘i-LIVE,’ created by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC).
The i-LIVE ventilator was approved for a five-year period under the DRAP Act 2012, following a thorough technical evaluation. These milestones highlight Pakistan’s commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and promoting self-reliance in the medical technology sector.
