Russia not to impose total ban on import of sophisticated medical technology

According to Kommersant newspaper, the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade has officially backed down from its plans to impose a total ban on import of sophisticated medical technology and equipment from August of 2014. Minister Denis Manturov informs that the ban has been changed to restrictions concerning those market sectors, whose annual volume is about $1-1.2 billion and where at least two Customs Union manufacturers operate.

Previously in spring of 2014 the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade announced a draft bill banning public medical providers from purchasing CT scans, X-ray units and other equipment not manufactured in Russia, Kazakhstan or Belarus.

The present decision makes it possible for foreign manufacturers of medical equipment to take part in Russian public tenders if there are no proposals from companies from the Customs Union or if only one proposal is submitted. According to the ministry officials, this approach will promote an effective competition among Russian manufacturers and support the innovation-driven development of the industry.

Expocentre Press Office according to Russian press sources