MTaI welcomes equitable MedTech purchase policy

New Delhi: The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has released the Global Tender Enquiry (GTE) exemption list following extensive engagement with global and local medical device companies.

The announcement, made on June 28, marks a crucial step towards fair policymaking in the MedTech sector, addressing the last mile of procurement challenges. 

Speaking on the government’s initiative, Pavan Choudary, Chairman of the Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI), stated, “This is a path-breaking effort by the government towards equitable policymaking, spanning the crucial last mile which was uncovered so far. This exercise has levelled the playing field, and its ultimate beneficiary will be the patient who will have continued access to quality products till reliable import substitutes are available, and the nation because such a system of checks and balances will not allow sub-par product launches to tar our reputation as a reliable manufacturing destination. This reputation will assist our growing exports and the foreign investor on seeing that the government staff is taking such pains to ensure policymaking is fair will also be encouraged”.

The review exercise, conducted over two days, was chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals and included representatives from the DoP, CDSCO, DGHS, and AIIMS. The committee meticulously evaluated the claims of both global and domestic manufacturers, inviting them to provide supporting documents and justifications. Over 100 representatives from the MedTech industry participated in the meeting, presenting their cases for inclusion in the GTE exemption list.

Choudary noted, “A prima facie review of the list shows that all stakeholders have had some claims of theirs shot down. This was natural to happen due to the irreproachable jury of users and experts. But must say, that to the best of our knowledge, we are not aware of any government going to this painstaking extent to serve justice to the patient or the industry.”

The release of the GTE exemption list is expected to enhance the procurement process for medical devices in India, ensuring a fair and transparent system that prioritizes quality and reliability.