BANGLADESH MVT INDUSTRY FOCUSING MORE ON CHINA.

Bangladeshis have traditionally sought medical treatment abroad due to limitations in domestic healthcare facilities. Historically, India was the primary destination for these medical tourists. However, recent developments have led to a shift in this trend, with increasing numbers of Bangladeshi patients considering China as an alternative for medical care.

China's Initiatives to Attract Bangladeshi Medical Tourists

In January 2025, during a visit by Bangladesh's Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain to Beijing, China agreed to designate two to three hospitals in Kunming, Yunnan Province, to treat Bangladeshi patients. This decision aims to provide an alternative to India, especially for those facing challenges in obtaining Indian visas.

Additionally, China has pledged to construct a large public hospital in Purbachal, near Dhaka, and to establish a tertiary-level hospital through a public-private partnership. These initiatives are part of China's broader strategy to enhance healthcare cooperation with Bangladesh.

Impact of Political Relations on Medical Tourism

The shift towards China is influenced by recent political tensions between Bangladesh and India. Since August 2024, bilateral relations have been strained, leading to difficulties for Bangladeshi patients seeking medical treatment in India. Some Indian hospitals have reportedly refused treatment to Bangladeshi patients, and there has been a significant reduction in the number of visas issued to them.

China's Medical Tourism Promotion in Bangladesh

In December 2024, the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh hosted the "Nihao! China" Medical Tourism Promotion Conference in Dhaka. The event aimed to introduce Chinese healthcare services to the Bangladeshi public, highlighting offerings such as health check-up tours, wellness retreats, and traditional Chinese medicine experiences. This initiative underscores China's commitment to attracting medical tourists from Bangladesh.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite these developments, the shift in medical tourism patterns is complex. While China offers alternative treatment options, factors such as language barriers, cultural differences, and logistical challenges may influence patients' decisions. Additionally, the quality and cost of medical services in China compared to other countries remain important considerations for Bangladeshi patients.

In summary, while China is emerging as a significant destination for Bangladeshi medical tourists, the full impact of this shift will depend on the successful implementation of these initiatives and the resolution of existing challenges.

Regards,

M.S. Guru Prasad.

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