Manufacturers are calling on the Indian government to reconsider tariffs on medical devices as the government weighs reducing import duties. They argue that current tariffs are already among the lowest globally, and further reductions could harm local manufacturers. The association emphasizes addressing non-tariff barriers and maintaining healthcare security through a balanced regulatory approach.

Manufacturers are urging the Indian government to reassess the tariffs on medical devices as the Centre contemplates reducing import duties in India. The Indian Medical Device manufacturers state that current tariffs are among the lowest globally, and any further reductions could adversely affect local manufacturers.

Rajiv Nath, the forum coordinator for the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD), emphasized the importance of reviewing tariff structures amid efforts to enhance healthcare security in India. The government is considering a reduction in tariffs on imported medical devices from the United States as part of a potential trade agreement.

AiMeD has expressed apprehension regarding the recent discussions on cutting import duties, especially given India’s existing 70% dependency on medical device imports. Manufacturers are advocating for a more balanced strategy that addresses both tariffs and non-tariff barriers, including regulatory approvals that impact the availability of medical devices.

They propose that India should pursue a fair-trade agreement that not only aligns tariff structures with those of the US but also addresses non-tariff measures. Rajiv Chibber, joint coordinator of AiMeD, highlighted that actual market entry barriers for Indian manufacturers are regulatory, such as high US FDA registration costs and demanding clinical trials.

Moreover, manufacturers cited precedents like US-imposed tariffs on syringes and PPE as potential measures for India to safeguard its medical device supply chain. They recommend similar tariffs to bolster preparedness against future health crises.

Nath reiterated the need for a resilient medical device manufacturing sector that aligns with the nation’s healthcare security. He concluded that a balanced approach to tariffs and regulations would not only solidify India’s role in the global medical device market but also secure its healthcare priorities.

In conclusion, domestic manufacturers are imploring the Indian government to reevaluate tariffs on medical devices amidst potential import duty cuts. They argue that further reductions may jeopardize local manufacturing efforts already impacted by low tariffs. By advocating for a balanced approach to tariffs and non-tariff barriers, manufacturers emphasize the importance of establishing a resilient medical device industry in India to enhance healthcare security and ensure self-sufficiency.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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