CCRA, PMAS-AAUR partner to improve cannabis testing and regulation
RAWALPINDI, October 28, 2026: The Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority (CCRA) and Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen scientific research, laboratory testing and regulatory oversight in Pakistan’s emerging cannabis sector.
The agreement aims to establish closer cooperation between the regulatory authority and the university, enabling scientific research to support evidence-based regulatory decisions, standardised testing procedures and the development of technical expertise.
The MoU was signed by Prof Dr Abida Raza on behalf of PMAS-AAUR and CCRA Director Asif Haroon in the presence of CCRA Director General Maj Gen (retd) Zafarullah Khan HI(M) and PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman.
Under the agreement, both institutions will share scientific expertise, technical knowledge and research resources to strengthen institutional capacity and promote responsible research in the cannabis sector.
Collaboration to strengthen scientific testing
The partnership will focus on research into cannabis biology, genetics, biotechnology and bioactive compounds, alongside the development of reliable laboratory testing methods.
Key areas of cooperation include cannabinoid identification and quantification, chemical profiling, analytical method development and validation, and the screening of cannabis plant materials, extracts and derivatives.
The institutions will also undertake joint research projects and provide scientific support for regulatory decision-making.
Technical training will form another component of the agreement, with particular emphasis on strengthening CCRA’s laboratory capabilities and improving the reliability of testing procedures.
The collaboration is intended to help establish consistent scientific standards for assessing cannabis-related materials and support the development of an effective regulatory framework.
CCRA stresses evidence-based regulation
Speaking on the occasion, CCRA Director General Maj Gen (retd) Zafarullah Khan described the agreement as an important step towards establishing a scientifically supported regulatory framework for Pakistan’s emerging cannabis industry.
He emphasised that effective regulation required reliable scientific evidence, standardised laboratory testing and strong institutional capacity.
The director general said collaboration with academic and research institutions would help strengthen the authority’s technical capabilities and support informed regulatory decisions.
He highlighted the importance of integrating scientific expertise into regulatory processes to ensure that oversight mechanisms were supported by credible research and validated analytical methods.
University highlights research opportunities
PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman welcomed the agreement, describing it as a significant development in strengthening cooperation between academia and regulatory institutions.
He said the partnership would connect regulatory oversight with scientific advancement and create opportunities for research addressing emerging national priorities.
According to the vice chancellor, the collaboration reflects the university’s commitment to applying its scientific and technical capabilities to practical challenges facing developing sectors.
He emphasised that cooperation between universities and regulatory bodies could contribute to improved research standards, institutional development and evidence-based policymaking.
Focus on institutional capacity
The agreement provides a framework for joint scientific activities, technical training and the exchange of expertise between CCRA and PMAS-AAUR.
Through research collaboration and laboratory capacity development, both institutions aim to improve the scientific foundations of cannabis regulation in Pakistan.
The partnership is expected to support the development of standardised testing procedures, strengthen regulatory decision-making and encourage responsible scientific research in the emerging sector.