Dhaka, Feb. 2 -- The leading drug manufacturers posted double-digit year-on-year profit growth in the first half (H1) of the current financial year, driven by higher sales and lower input costs amid a stable forex market.

The pharmaceutical companies remained on growth trajectory at a time when other businesses were struggling with high operating costs amid inflationary pressure.

"Sales of lifesaving drugs increased due to strong local demand, while leading companies successfully managed to keep operating costs lower," Salim Afzal Shawon, head of research at BRAC EPL Stockbrokerage, told The Financial Express over the phone.

The growing population, coupled with rising awareness of healthcare needs, has amplified demand for generic medi...