Medical Tourism: can China compete with Thailand?

China is aiming to boost its medical tourism industry, but faces stiff competition from neighboring countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Taiwan. While China boasts rapid innovation and technological development in healthcare, it lacks the established reputation and branding enjoyed by its neighbors.

Thailand, in particular, has carved a niche for itself in medical tourism due to its high-quality services, affordable prices, and emphasis on hospitality. South Korea has also established a strong presence in medical tourism, particularly for cosmetic surgery, and is aiming to attract 700,000 foreign patients annually by 2027. Taiwan, known for its cost-effective healthcare, also competes with mainland China in this market.

Despite facing challenges, China is making strides in attracting medical tourists. Shanghai, with its large expat population and inbound tourism, is leading the charge. Renji Hospital, a leading medical center known for paediatric liver transplants, is aiming to attract more international patients. Other cities like Shenzhen are also investing in medical tourism infrastructure, focusing on standardized services and attracting tourists from neighboring regions like Hong Kong and Macau.

However, experts point out that China faces significant hurdles. Language barriers, cultural differences, and concerns about medical quality compared to established medical tourism destinations may deter potential patients. While China’s healthcare system is rapidly developing, it still needs to build trust and a strong reputation for attracting international medical tourists.