India Showcases MedTech Ambitions at 11th APACMed Forum in New Delhi

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, inaugurated the 11th Asia Pacific MedTech Forum (APACMed) 2025 via a video message from New Delhi on 16 September 2025. The high-profile gathering, themed “Swastha Bharat – A Healthier India, Together”, has brought together global healthcare leaders, regulators, and policymakers to chart the next chapter of India’s MedTech growth story.

MedTech as a Pillar of Health Transformation

In his address, Shri Nadda underscored that the MedTech sector has become a cornerstone of India’s health transformation, encompassing advanced diagnostics, digital health innovations, AI-driven medical solutions, and next-generation devices. These technologies, he said, are making healthcare more affordable and accessible, while strengthening India’s reputation as a trusted global provider of high-quality medical solutions.

The Minister highlighted that the forum’s agenda directly aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, which envisions India as a global leader in innovation and healthcare delivery.

He outlined four thematic pillars of this year’s forum:

• Unlocking India for Global Leadership in MedTech

• Innovation without Limits – From Better to Breakthrough

• MedTech for All – Delivering Value and Driving Outcomes

• Scaling Up MedTech – Investing in India’s Future

“These pillars capture the essence of an inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive healthcare system. The deliberations here will not only shape strategies but also open new opportunities for India to emerge as a global MedTech hub,” he stated.

Government Initiatives to Strengthen MedTech

Union Minister of State Smt. Anupriya Patel highlighted several proactive steps taken by the Government to build a robust MedTech ecosystem. Key initiatives include:

• A new scheme to support component manufacturing and common infrastructure

• Critical funding for market and clinical studies

• Investor-friendly policies such as 100% FDI in medical devices

• Establishment of an Export Promotion Council and National Medical Devices Promotion Council to improve ease of doing business and expand exports

“India is emerging not only as a high-volume manufacturer but also as a high-value player in the global MedTech market. The next leap will come from collaborations, and I invite all stakeholders to join us in co-creating solutions for India and other emerging markets,” she said.

Policy Push: A Framework for Growth

Dr. Vinod K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, emphasized the transformative policy framework rolled out in recent years. He described the National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 as a landmark step, providing a roadmap for sectoral growth. Supporting measures include:

• Policy on R&D and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech

• Development of Medical Device Parks, modeled on the Andhra MedTech Zone

• PLI Scheme for incentivizing domestic manufacturing

• The Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech Sector (PRIP), popularly known as the BRICS scheme

Together, these initiatives aim to position India as a global hub for medical technology, while ensuring affordability and accessibility for its 1.4 billion citizens.

APACMed’s Global Role

John Collings, President (Asia Pacific), APACMed, emphasized the association’s role in harmonizing regulatory standards, advancing innovation, and improving market access across the region. Established in 2014 and headquartered in Singapore, APACMed represents over 350 leading companies and collaborates closely with bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF).

In India, APACMed has over 40 member organizations engaged with the government and industry to expand access to innovative healthcare solutions and strengthen India’s global competitiveness in MedTech.

Building India’s MedTech Future

The two-day forum, attended by delegates from more than 10 Asia-Pacific countries, provides a unique platform for strategic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities. Discussions are expected to accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in MedTech manufacturing, R&D, and digital health integration.

By reinforcing innovation, scaling up domestic production, and encouraging global partnerships, India is positioning itself not just as a major market, but as a driving force in shaping the future of medical technology worldwide.