Thailand’s market for medical devices is expected to record healthy growth this year in keeping with burgeoning medical tourism. ‘‘We were at first a bit concerned at the impact of Thailand’s political instability,’’ said Gernot Ringling, managing director of Messe Dusseldorf Asia Pte, the organizer of HospiMedica Thailand 2007 that opened yesterday and runs through tomorrow at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. ‘But it turns out to be completely otherwise. The third edition of HospiMedica Thailand has had a strong show of support from more than 250 exhibiting companies from 25 countries including Austria, Belgium, China, Germany, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and the UK. We feel more upbeat about Thailand’s market prospects for medical devices.’’ ‘ According to Mr Ringling, the number of exhibitors has increased by 40% since the exhibition made its debut in 2003. HospiMedica Thailand 2007 will update the health-care industry on the latest technological developments in hospital, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, medical and rehabilitation equipment and supplies. Apart from showcasing innovations, medical and health-care products, and services, the event will also help leading health-care manufacturers, suppliers and professionals to network. The organiser says that the steady rise of medical tourism and the healthcare challenges brought on by emerging pandemics and an ageing population have been contributing to the changing landscape of health care. By 2012, the health-care industry in Asia is expected to gross US$7 billion annually. Consumer health-care expenditure is expected to double from $90 billion in 1999 to $188 billion in 2013. In the Asia-Pacific region, the medical equipment and supplies market is forecast to grow by 30% to a value of approximately $43 billion by 2010. Thailand’s market for medical devices was valued at between $480 million and $550 million in 2006 and is expected to grow by 20% this year. Dr Chatri Banchuin, director-general of the Department of Medical Services, said Thailand relied on imports, particularly in high-tech medical equipment and accessories, importing more than 80% of its total requirements. ‘‘The medical equipment and supplies market in Thailand is expected to maintain steady growth of 20% this year and this growth is mainly from the expansion of health-care facilities, replacement of medical equipment and upgrades,’’ he said. ‘‘The demand is further spurred by marketing strategies initiated by major private hospitals to boost their income and to differentiate themselves from the competitors.’’ Dr Chatri said more private hospitals were positioning themselves in specialised fields to attract patients with specific ailments including cardiac, ophthalmic, neurological, and dialysis conditions. Private hospitals are also attracting overseas patients and expatriates living and working in Thailand. Bangkok Post: CHAROEN KITTIKANYA