Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers data shows significant export growth in the implants and consumables segments, reflecting a positive shift in India’s manufacturing capabilities and global competitiveness. However, to achieve full self-reliance, there is a need to focus on local production of high-tech components and R&D investments in medical technology.

The data shows a consistent increase in ( in terms of values) exports across all segments over the three fiscal years. However, imports have shown mixed trends, with some segments witnessing a decline in import dependency while others continue to rely heavily on foreign markets.

The export growth indicates a positive shift driven by increased domestic production and government initiatives like the ‘Make in India’ campaign. However, the fluctuating imports suggest that certain high-tech equipment and consumables are still largely sourced from foreign suppliers.

For consumables and disposables, overall (FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24) imports decreased by 27.03 per cent ( in terms of value), while exports grew by 27.14 per cent. The strong export growth and declining import dependency indicate that India is becoming a significant player in the manufacturing and export of consumables and disposables. This trend is likely driven by increased domestic production capabilities, particularly in the post-pandemic period when demand for medical consumables surged globally.

Surgical Instruments and Electronics Equipment

Surgical instruments reported slow growth in both imports and exports. Overall (FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24): Imports grew by 21.30 per cent, and exports grew by 11.26 per cent. The slow growth in exports suggests that India still faces challenges in scaling up the production of high-precision surgical equipment. Imports remain steady, indicating a dependency on foreign suppliers for high-tech surgical tools.

In electronics equipment overall imports slightly decreased by 0.61 per cent, while exports grew by 26.57 per cent. The electronics equipment segment consistently increases exports, reflecting India’s growing capabilities in manufacturing medical electronics. However, the high import dependency remains a concern.

Interestingly implants have shown good export growth. Overall imports increased by 38.53 per cent, while exports almost doubled, growing by 97.03 per cent. The implants segment shows remarkable export growth, suggesting that India is emerging as a global supplier of medical implants. However, the steady increase in imports indicates domestic demand for implants still outpacing local production. This could allow manufacturers to further invest in high-quality, affordable implants to reduce import dependency.

IVD Regents imports decreased by 8.95 per cent, while exports grew by 22.73 per cent. The gradual growth in exports of IVD reagents suggests that India is becoming more competitive in this segment. However, the stable import dependency indicates that key raw materials or advanced reagents are still sourced from foreign markets.

New Scheme

The Ministry recently told the Rajya Sabha that to provide support in critical areas of the medical device industry, covering manufacturing of key components and accessories, skill development, support for clinical studies, development of common infrastructure, and industry promotion, a new scheme, “Strengthening of Medical Device Industry” with five sub-schemes, was launched in November 2024 with a financial outlay of ₹500 crore.