Indian medical device companies are optimistic about expanding their businesses under the recently signed India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with many aiming to double their export volumes from single-digit figures. The FTA has significantly lowered tariffs on key medical devices, potentially reducing the cost of imported equipment and bringing savings to Indian patients on medical bills.
However, industry experts stress the importance of mandatory disclosure of manufacturing sites for all imported devices to prevent dumping and transshipment from undisclosed locations. They argue that such transparency is vital to ensure fair trade practices and maintain quality standards.
“This is a positive development as it opens doors to the UK, one of the top five markets globally. Indian companies can look forward to more sourcing from UK companies, as well as public procurement opportunities under the National Health Service (NHS),” said Himanshu Baid, Managing Director of Poly Medicure, in an interview with TOI. “As a company, we are optimistic and aim to increase our exports to the UK, growing our contribution from the current 5-6%,” he added.
Industry leaders also caution against the risk of rerouted products from countries like China. “Transparent, unambiguous disclosure ensures legal compliance, protects patient safety through true traceability, and upholds a level playing field for all companies, particularly those adhering to high levels of regulatory compliance,” said Pavan Choudary, Chairman of the Medical Technology Association of India.
Choudary emphasized the need for FTAs to mandate clear disclosure of actual manufacturing sites for all imported products. He highlighted that India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) already requires separate registration of both the legal and actual manufacturers. “The CDSCO must enforce this provision rigorously, honestly, and consistently,” he said.
Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator of the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD), added that rules of origin and value addition criteria are crucial to ensure products undergo significant transformation in the country of origin. This helps prevent trade deflection, where products from one country are routed through another to avoid tariffs or trade restrictions.
Notably, medical device imports from the UK increased by 36% last year, reaching ₹2,295 crore, reflecting the growing demand and market potential. As Indian manufacturers look to capitalize on the FTA, industry leaders call for strict compliance and transparent practices to secure the growth and integrity of the domestic market.
