Taiwan Partners with Czech Institute on €200 Million Medical Aid Initiative

Taiwan’s Institute for Biotechnology and Medicine Industry (IBMI) has forged a significant partnership with a Czech nonprofit organization, launching a medical aid procurement initiative valued at €200 million (approximately US$233.5 million) aimed at improving healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. The agreement was formalized on October 17, 2023, during the opening of the Healthcare+ Expo Taiwan in Taipei, where IBMI Vice President Yang Pan-chyr and Petr Foit, chairman of the Czech Health Technology Institute, signed the documents.

This collaboration builds on a relationship established in 2023, when IBMI began working with the Czech institute to facilitate the entry of various Taiwanese medical products, such as handheld ultrasound devices and electrocardiography systems, into European markets. Yang noted that this year’s efforts would focus on the African medical aid procurement program, which will source a diverse range of medical equipment from Taiwan.

The procurement initiative is designed to enhance primary healthcare, maternal and child care, and bolster the resilience of both regional and central hospitals in sub-Saharan Africa. The program will include approximately 20 different types of medical equipment, such as intensive care respiratory devices and fetal heart monitors, which are crucial for improving health outcomes in the region.

Strengthening International Ties

This initiative represents a significant step for Taiwan’s medical technology sector as it seeks to expand its international presence. According to IBMI, the program will facilitate greater cooperation with countries under the European Union framework, further aiding Taiwan’s entry into both European and emerging markets.

During the expo, which runs through October 22, 2023, Taiwanese President William Lai emphasized the government’s commitment to healthcare innovation. He highlighted a five-year investment plan amounting to NT$48.9 billion (US$1.56 billion), aimed at fostering a “healthy Taiwan.” A key component of this plan is the promotion of smart healthcare technologies, with the adoption of the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources standard to streamline technology integration in medical practices.

Building a Robust Medical Technology Sector

President Lai expressed confidence in Taiwan’s healthcare capabilities, citing the country’s high-quality medical services and substantial biotechnology industry as foundational elements for the continued growth of its medical technology sector. He remarked that these advancements not only position Taiwan as a leader in healthcare but also enhance its global standing in biomedicine.

The Healthcare+ Expo Taiwan serves as a platform for networking among global healthcare leaders and associations, showcasing Taiwan’s innovations and fostering international collaboration in the medical field. As the country continues to develop its medical technology industry, initiatives like the partnership with the Czech institute will play a crucial role in addressing global health challenges and improving healthcare accessibility in underserved regions.