Ireland to be medical tech leader

Ireland is being positioned as a global leader of the medical technology sector by 2015, with the industry set to be a “key driver” in the country’s ongoing export-led economic growth.

At the launch of its four-year strategy yesterday, the IBEC-affiliated Irish Medical Device Association said its aim is that, by 2015, Irish-made medical technology products and solutions will be major contributors to global healthcare and the global economy. It sees Ireland as an international location of choice for the industry due to its expertise and pro-business environment.

There are 250 medical technology companies operating in Ireland, 50% of which are indigenous firms. These companies employ around 25,000 people and export €7.2bn worth of products per year. Ireland is already ranked as the leader in terms of inward investment from the sector.