Thailand's medical device industry is facing potential supply shortages by July due to rising costs influenced by global energy instability and restricted exports from China. Jarudech Kunadilok, Chairman of MEDIC, highlighted that soaring logistics expenses and increased prices for essential materials like plastic resins threaten production. Freight costs have surged by 40%, and raw material prices have increased, causing a 25% rise in production costs that companies are struggling to absorb.
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The crisis stems from ongoing energy issues in the Middle East and China's tightened chemical exports, limiting raw material availability and impacting production. Suppliers are rationing materials, and Thai manufacturers face losses due to fixed-price procurement systems that do not adjust to market realities. Without intervention, some manufacturers might shut down by September or October.
To manage the crisis, Jarudech suggests implementing delivery quotas and prioritizing essential hospital areas like operating theaters. He calls for government support through fast-tracking raw material imports and adjusting procurement rules. Additionally, improving domestic production efficiency and introducing a shared logistics model could mitigate transport costs. As the situation evolves, urgent cooperation between government and industry is essential to avert severe shortages.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 04 Mar 2026