Taiwan and Czech Institute Launch €200 Million Medical Aid Program

Taiwan’s Institute for Biotechnology and Medicine Industry (IBMI) has formed a partnership with the Czech Health Technology Institute to initiate a €200 million (US$233.5 million) medical aid procurement program aimed at enhancing healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. The agreement was signed by IBMI Vice President Yang Pan-chyr and Petr Foit, Chairman of the Czech Health Technology Institute, during the opening of the Healthcare+ Expo Taiwan in Taipei.

The collaboration marks a significant expansion of their ongoing relationship, which began in 2023. IBMI has been working with the Czech institute to facilitate the entry of various Taiwanese medical products into European markets. These products include handheld ultrasound devices, microplate readers, and electrocardiography systems. This renewed partnership aims to further bolster healthcare systems in Africa through the procurement program.

According to IBMI, the program will source approximately 20 different medical equipment items from Taiwan, including vital-sign monitoring devices and intensive care respiratory equipment. The initiative is designed to improve primary healthcare, maternal and child care, and enhance the resilience of regional and central hospitals across sub-Saharan Africa.

Strengthening Taiwan’s Medical Technology Sector

The IBMI emphasized that this procurement effort represents a crucial step in Taiwan’s strategy to internationalize its medical technology sector. With this initiative, Taiwan aims to foster cooperation with more countries under the European Union framework, expanding its reach into both European and emerging markets.

During the opening ceremony of the Healthcare+ Expo, Taiwanese President William Lai highlighted the government’s commitment to improving health services with a five-year investment of NT$48.9 billion (US$1.56 billion) aimed at establishing a “healthy Taiwan.” A major focus of this initiative is the promotion of smart healthcare. President Lai noted that the government plans to adopt the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources standard, which will facilitate better integration of technology into healthcare practices.

Taiwan is recognized for its high-quality healthcare system, coupled with a robust biotechnology industry and an influential technology sector. These strengths form a strong foundation for the ongoing development of Taiwan’s medical technology industry, as stated by President Lai.

The Healthcare+ Expo Taiwan is taking place at the Nangang Exhibition Center in Taipei and will continue through Sunday. The event includes a networking reception for global healthcare leaders and associations, providing an opportunity for collaboration and partnership in the health sector.

This new partnership with the Czech institute not only enhances the visibility of Taiwan’s medical technology on the global stage but also represents a significant investment in improving healthcare outcomes in regions that require it most.