Upcoming Trade Shows in Germany for Medical Equipment

Germany’s medical equipment industry remains one of the most robust in the world, and as the largest market in Europe, it continues to be a vital component of both the healthcare and life sciences (HCT) sectors. Germany, along with the EU, has prioritised healthcare and life sciences in its policies and funding programs. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), spanning from 2021 to 2027, and the EU's Horizon Europe program both emphasise health-related research, innovation, and infrastructure development. Horizon Europe, which entered into force in 2021, targets projects like cancer research, smart healthcare, ageing populations, and digital models of care. These initiatives open up new opportunities for international companies to collaborate on projects within Germany’s healthcare infrastructure. Despite the industry's robust growth potential, the regulatory framework remains a challenge for new entrants. The German medical equipment industry is governed by both German and EU directives and safety standards. In 2021, the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) came into full effect, bringing stricter compliance, testing, and certification requirements. A year later, in May 2022, the In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) followed. While these regulations ensure greater consistency across the EU market, they also impose additional hurdles for companies looking to sell in Germany. While Germany’s healthcare system is advanced, it has historically been slow to adopt new technologies due to its decentralised structure. However, this is changing. The German government is pushing for digital transformation within healthcare, aided by new laws designed to modernise the system. These changes present opportunities for international health tech companies, particularly those specialising in digital healthcare solutions, such as telemedicine, health data management, and AI-driven diagnostics. The regulatory changes, though complex, offer a level playing field for companies once compliance is achieved. For U.S. suppliers, partnering with German and EU firms can be an effective strategy to navigate this regulatory landscape.