Prime Highlights :
- MTaI called for better alignment between FTAs and domestic healthcare policies.
- Industry leaders sought faster approvals and stronger implementation of trade agreements.
Key Facts :
- MTaI represents leading medical technology companies in India.
- MTaI member companies train nearly 250,000 healthcare professionals every year.
Background :
The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) has called for better alignment between India’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) framework and domestic policies to improve healthcare outcomes and speed up patient access to advanced medical technologies. The association made the appeal during a closed-door roundtable held as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations. The event brought together policymakers, trade experts, diplomats and leaders from the medical technology industry.
The discussion focused on ensuring that India’s growing network of FTAs is supported by strong domestic policies on regulation, procurement, investment and workforce mobility. Participants said trade agreements alone would not deliver their full benefits without faster implementation, simpler regulations and better coordination among government agencies.
MTaI Chairman Pavan Choudary said global trade is increasingly shaped by regional partnerships and FTAs. He stated that India should focus not only on manufacturing but also on designing, testing, training and delivering healthcare solutions. He added that the success of trade agreements would depend on effective tariff implementation, removal of non-tariff barriers, easier movement of skilled professionals and stronger investment support.
The roundtable also discussed the need for quicker customs processes, simpler product classification, easier rules of origin and faster approvals for medical technologies. Participants stressed that public procurement policies and regulatory systems should work together to improve market access.
Former Drugs Controller General of India Dr Gyanendra Nath Singh said India should continue building a science-based regulatory system that supports innovation while protecting patients. The leaders in the industry have also emphasized the need for enhancing local manufacturing capabilities, improving their export preparedness and establishing a robust supply chain for components. MTaI reiterated their commitment towards collaborating with the policymakers and industry leaders to foster innovation in advanced medical technology sector.
