Mexico is the second largest medical equipment market in Latin America, after Brazil. Imported products, principally from the United States, dominate the market. U.S. manufacturers benefit from geographic proximity and preferential terms under NAFTA. In 2005, more than 62 percent of Mexico’s medical device imports were from the U.S.

      American manufacturers of dental equipment and supplies dominate the Mexican market. In 2005, they accounted for 62.25 percent of the imports of these products. Imports of U.S. made dental equipment and supplies are expected to grow 10 percent per year over the next two years. The Mexican market is highly receptive to U.S. made dental equipment and supplies. American manufacturers have a solid reputation for the quality of their products. In addition, many Mexican dentists are in close contact with dentists from the United States. Mexican dentists follow closely the developments in techniques, equipment, and materials used to practice their profession.

      Public institutions, which account for around 80 percent of the total market, purchase through open invitations to tender published in the official gazette. Government institutions are required to prepare an annual procurement program, which must be available to suppliers and contractors by March 31 each year. Private hospitals often use an informal tendering process, requesting quotes from several suppliers.

      Mexico’s healthcare system is complex, with several government and public insurance bodies responsible for funding and providing...

...Continued in the pages of Twin Plant News, Subscribe Today!