Doha, April 02 (QNA) - Assistant Undersecretary for Healthcare Regulatory Affairs at the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) Dr Ghanim Al Mannai affirmed that the automation of inspection procedures has significantly improved the speed and efficiency of food and drug oversight, particularly under current conditions.

Speaking during an inspection visit to the food and pharmaceutical inspection units and the Food Safety Laboratory at the Abu Samra border crossing, Al Mannai praised the efficiency and commitment of ministry teams in applying regulatory and preventive measures, as well as their close coordination with relevant authorities.

He also commended the efforts of the Abu Samra Border Management Committee and the General Authority of Customs in providing the necessary resources to ensure smooth operations.

He noted that the visit is part of regular field inspections aimed at ensuring the flexibility and effectiveness of procedures, facilitating the flow of food, medicines, and pharmaceutical products into the local market while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Al Mannai highlighted the readiness of the Food Safety Laboratory, its qualified personnel, and advanced technologies, which enable rapid and reliable testing of imported food products to ensure their safety.

The ministry revealed that 5,970 food shipments were cleared in March, with 1,180 samples tested, reflecting continued laboratory oversight alongside accelerated clearance processes.

It also reported that more than 1,000 shipments of medicines and medical supplies have been inspected since February 28, with over 2.5 million pharmaceutical units and more than 157 shipments of diagnostic materials released, all subject to strict regulatory checks to ensure compliance and support national drug security. (QNA)