India’s burgeoning medical tourism industry, renowned for its affordable treatments and high-quality care, is facing a potential setback due to the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh. Bangladesh accounts for a substantial 50-60% of India’s international medical tourism, making it a crucial contributor to the sector’s success. However, the current instability has led to a significant number of Bangladeshi travelers canceling or postponing their medical trips to India, with CareEdge Ratings predicting a 10-15% decrease in medical tourists from Bangladesh in 2024.
This decline is a concerning development for India’s medical tourism industry, which has witnessed a remarkable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The sector’s growth trajectory was disrupted by travel restrictions in 2021, but 2022 saw a strong rebound, with medical tourism nearly reaching pre-pandemic levels. This positive trend continued into 2023, with international medical tourism to India surging by 33% year-on-year. However, the potential decrease in Bangladeshi medical tourists could dampen the sector’s growth prospects.
India’s appeal as a medical tourism hub stems from several factors. Its competitive treatment costs make it an attractive option for patients seeking affordable healthcare without compromising quality. Additionally, India boasts high-standard medical facilities and services, and relatively short waiting times for treatment further enhance its appeal. The country’s diverse and advanced medical services also draw patients seeking specialized treatments that may not be readily available or affordable in their home countries.
The cultural and linguistic affinity between India and Bangladesh, coupled with the availability of high-quality treatment at competitive rates, has historically contributed to the strong influx of Bangladeshi patients seeking medical care in India. This trend has solidified Bangladesh’s position as the top contributor to India’s medical tourism sector, exceeding contributions from the Middle East, Myanmar, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.
Despite the potential challenges posed by the decline in Bangladeshi medical tourists, CareEdge Ratings anticipates a gradual return to normalcy by the end of 2024. India’s strategic move to extend the e-medical visa facility to citizens from numerous countries is also expected to further bolster the sector’s growth in the coming years. However, the impact of the unrest in Bangladesh on India’s medical tourism industry remains a significant concern, highlighting the importance of regional stability for the sector’s continued success.
