VNExpress-July 11
Experts attending the International Healthcare Week in Bangkok say the Thai healthcare industry has the potential to penetrate the global market but needs government support if the country is to realize its aspirations to become a medical hub in ASEAN. The event, which runs until tomorrow (July 12) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, is expected to attract over 10,000 attendees from 50 countries worldwide, drawing in 350 leading global companies. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the trade show, which features cutting-edge medical supplies and promotes business networking, organizer Informa Markets made the point that the Thai medical laboratory and healthcare business has significantly improved compared to 2023 due to increased demand for medical devices, the expansion of hospitals and healthcare facilities, the rise in the elderly population, and the public’s growing health awareness. “These are key factors driving growth in Thailand’s medical device business,” said Informa’s group director for ASEAN, Rungphech Chitanuwat. She added that Thailand had also gained positive sentiment from the government’s support for promoting the medical industry, introducing new technologies and innovations, collaboration between public and private sectors in research and development, and increased investment in medical infrastructure. But although Thailand can produce medical supplies that meet international standards, such as low-cost equipment like rubber gloves and facemasks, and as shown potential in producing generic drugs, limitations in production pose a challenge to becoming a medical hub, she noted.
Thailand is planning to become a medical hub to attract tourists, so the readiness of hospitals, medicine and public health system is important, she added. “The Thai public health industry has been recognized by the United Nations as a model for developing countries,” said Vice Public Health Minister Thanakrit Jitareerat. He confirmed that Thailand has a strong public health system, thanks to medical staff excellence and robust medical services. Read more at: https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40039582
