The "Medical Tourism Asia Expo 2018," held on 6-7 August in Kathmandu, Nepal, marked a landmark event in the development of Nepal’s burgeoning medical tourism industry. Organized by the Nepal Medical Tourism Organisation, Explore Healthcare, and Explore Productive Chamber of Commerce, the event was the first of its kind in Nepal. Its purpose was to showcase Nepal’s immense potential as a healthcare destination and to foster collaborations and investment opportunities between Nepal and the global healthcare industry.
The expo attracted widespread international attention, with 100 delegates from countries including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Australia, Germany, the USA, the UK, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Middle East. This diverse participation underscored the global interest in Nepal’s medical value travel industry, as well as the growing recognition of the country's capabilities in healthcare services.
Nepal, already renowned as a tourist destination, is increasingly seen as a viable option for medical tourism. With high-quality healthcare facilities, experienced medical professionals, and significantly lower costs compared to Western countries, Nepal offers a compelling option for international patients seeking treatments abroad. The country's natural beauty and peaceful environment further enhance the appeal of Nepal as a recovery destination.
Our Key missions for the "Medical Tourism Asia Expo 2018," incorporating investment, partnership, and collaboration:
Showcase Nepal's Healthcare Capabilities: Highlight Nepal’s advanced medical facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and high-quality, cost-effective treatments to attract international patients and position Nepal as a competitive healthcare destination.
Foster International Collaborations: Facilitate partnerships between Nepalese healthcare providers and international stakeholders, including hospitals, clinics, and medical tourism agencies, to enhance the quality and scope of medical services offered.
Encourage Global Investment: Attract investment from international healthcare and tourism sectors to support and expand Nepal's medical infrastructure, improving facilities, technologies, and services to better serve medical tourists.
Promote Strategic Partnerships: Develop strategic alliances with global medical tourism organizations, travel agencies, and healthcare institutions to build a robust network that supports and promotes Nepal as a top choice for medical tourism.
Facilitate Knowledge Exchange and Networking: Provide a platform for delegates from around the world to exchange insights, share best practices, and discuss innovations in medical tourism, fostering a collaborative environment that supports mutual growth and development in the industry.
The objectives of the "Medical Tourism Asia Expo 2018" were not only to promote Nepal's healthcare infrastructure but also to build networks and facilitate partnerships with healthcare providers from around the world. The event aimed to boost medical tourism in Nepal by creating awareness and encouraging investment in the country’s healthcare sector.
Through this initiative, Nepal has made a strategic move to position itself as a competitive player in the global medical tourism industry. The expo successfully laid the foundation for future growth, collaborations, and advancements in medical tourism, with Nepal emerging as an attractive destination for patients seeking quality healthcare services abroad. EPCC, NEMTO and Explore Healthcare were the organizers.