Ayesha Saba
Pakistan has made a notable progress in boosting its surgical instruments exports; however, significant potential remains untapped. By adhering to the international standards, diversifying its product range, and strengthening trade relationships, the country can expand its global market presence and establish itself as a leader in surgical instrument manufacturing.
Talking to WealthPK, an official from the Surgical Instruments Manufacturers Association of Pakistan, who wished to remain anonymous, said Pakistan's surgical instruments industry held significant potential to expand its footprint in the global market, yet several structural and strategic obstacles hindered its growth. The industry exports its products to only 15 countries – a limited range compared to its competitors.
He identified key challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, high production costs, shortage of skilled labor, and absence of common facility centers. These systemic issues have curtailed the industry's ability to scale up its operations and compete globally. He recommended introducing joint ventures (JVs) to attract foreign investment and facilitate the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies.
China, the world’s second largest healthcare market, is modernizing rapidly, driven by an aging population and increased healthcare spending. This presents a significant opportunity for Pakistan, with its strong manufacturing base in cities like Sialkot (known for producing high-quality surgical instruments at competitive prices) to increase its exports. Pakistan’s share in China’s surgical instrument import market remains below 4%, he said.
In order to capture a larger share, the Pakistani manufacturers must align with China's medical device standards and obtain the necessary certifications to boost credibility and facilitate market entry, he suggested. Currently, exports lack the “Made in Pakistan” label, which diminishes global recognition of the country's surgical instruments. He emphasized that stamping products with this label was crucial to establish Pakistan as a trusted brand in the international markets.Without this, the Pakistani products struggle to gain visibility and compete with well-known global brands.
He further informed WealthPK that over 10,000 different medical instruments, covering all sections of surgery and basic needs, were being manufactured in Sialkot and exported, including surgical instruments, electro-medical devices,body external fixation systems and implants, micro surgery instruments, cardiovascular instruments, endoscopic and gynecological tools, ENT instruments, respiratory aid instruments, orthopedic instruments, hollowware, anesthesia products, hospital furniture, dental instruments, veterinary instruments, and personal beauty care and beauty salon items.
Pakistan's exports of medical and surgical instruments to China have seen substantial growth during the first 10 months of 2024, reflecting a promising development for the country’s healthcare manufacturing industry. According to the recent data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), the export value of these products to China has increased by 5.189% compared to the same period last year.
Credit: INP-WealthPk