AdvaMed Opens Office in China

Officials with the Washington, D.C.,-based Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed) confirmed that Chinese authorities have approved the trade group’s application to open a representative office in Shanghai, where many AdvaMed members have their China headquarters.

“This official recognition will substantially enhance AdvaMed’s ability to partner with Chinese authorities and other stakeholders, and provide AdvaMed members expanded opportunities to engage on important policy issues in one of the world’s fastest growing markets for medical technology,” said Stephen J. Ubl, president and CEO of AdvaMed.

Key policy issues in China include the need to streamline regulations, ensure appropriate reimbursement for medical technologies and harmonize ethical business practices, according to Ubl.

“Our efforts in China will help ensure patient access to advanced medical technologies and will benefit both local Chinese companies and importers,” Ubl added.

AdvaMed’s official recognition in China adds to the association’s existing presence in the country.

Lynn Jiao, executive director of AdvaMed’s China program, has been working on behalf of the association’s members for the past 17 months. Jiao has more than 20 years of experience in China advocating on behalf of medical technology, including as the lead official responsible for medical devices in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Foreign Commercial Service.

AdvaMed also has established a China Council, consisting of member companies’ senior representatives in the country, which met for the first time in April 2013. In addition, AdvaMed has had a shared staff position with the American Chamber of Commerce in Beijing since 2009.

“Official approval of our China office further solidifies our commitment to this important market, where many of our members have made substantial investments and established research facilities that contribute to China’s growth,” said Ralph F. Ives, AdvaMed executive vice president, global strategy and analysis. “Advanced medical technologies hold great potential to improve patient outcomes, control burgeoning health care costs and boost the efficiency of China’s health care system. Our new China office will enhance our ability to make our case with local officials and other stakeholders.”