Identifying Market Gaps and Local Manufacturing Potential for Essential Medical Devices in Pakistan
Keywords:
Medical Devices, Import Dependency, Healthcare Policy, Local Manufacturing, Pakistan, Strategic SourcingAbstract
Background
Pakistan's healthcare system faces significant challenges due to its heavy reliance on imported medical devices, creating financial strain and supply chain vulnerabilities that compromise patient care and system resilience.
Objective
This study aimed to analyze Pakistan's medical device import data to identify and prioritize specific, high-impact products for local development and strategic policy intervention.
Methods
A quantitative analysis of fiscal year 2022-23 import data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics was conducted. Data was processed using SPSS, where medical devices were categorized into capital equipment and consumables for comparative statistical analysis.
Results
The findings revealed a stark market bifurcation. A small number of high-value capital equipment items, like CT scanners, accounted for significant import costs, while high-volume, low-cost consumables, such as syringes and cannulae, dominated import quantities.
Implications
This research provides a definitive, evidence-based roadmap for policymakers and investors to target import substitution and foster local industry growth, which is crucial for building a more sustainable and self-sufficient healthcare system in Pakistan.
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