Pakistan’s quality control system has come under sharp scrutiny after lawmakers questioned why the government continues to rely on expensive private laboratories instead of strengthening national institutions. The issue, now widely referred to as the PSQCA testing issue, was raised during a Senate Standing Committee meeting on Science and Technology.
Officials revealed that the government is paying up to Rs 50,000 per test to private labs for product verification. Lawmakers expressed concern that such high costs are being incurred despite the presence of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), which was originally designed to handle these responsibilities.
Senate Raises Questions Over Testing System
The Senate Standing Committee, chaired by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, strongly criticised the current testing and certification framework. Members questioned why public testing facilities are not being fully utilised or upgraded.
During the meeting, the Secretary for Science and Technology admitted that products cleared by PSQCA often require re-testing abroad. This raised further concerns about the credibility and technical capacity of local testing systems.
Lawmakers said this situation creates an unnecessary financial burden on the government and industries. They stressed that strengthening PSQCA could reduce dependency on costly external arrangements.
Weak Enforcement and Structural Gaps
Committee members also highlighted major gaps in enforcement powers. They pointed out that PSQCA does not have on-the-spot fine authority. Instead, violation cases must go through magistrates, which slows down action against non-compliant industries.
This weak enforcement system, according to the committee, reduces the effectiveness of quality control checks across the country. Members demanded complete records of regulatory action, including factory inspections, penalties, and enforcement outcomes.
Concerns Over Product Quality and Testing Standards
The meeting also discussed concerns regarding product quality, especially in the solar energy sector. Lawmakers noted repeated complaints about defects and manufacturing issues in solar panels.
Officials informed the committee that the Pakistan–Korea Solar Module Testing Laboratory is now operational. They also invited members to visit the facility for inspection.
Despite this development, lawmakers stressed that isolated improvements are not enough. They called for a complete overhaul of the national testing framework to address the broader PSQCA testing issue.
Call for a Stronger Quality Control System
The committee concluded that weak regulatory oversight is damaging investor confidence and affecting industrial standards. Members argued that Pakistan cannot rely on fragmented testing systems if it wants to compete globally.
They urged the government to modernise PSQCA, improve technical capacity, and reduce dependence on private labs. Lawmakers also emphasised the need for transparent enforcement mechanisms and better coordination among regulatory bodies.
For now, the debate continues over whether reform or revival of PSQCA will be prioritised in future policy decisions.
