Recommendations
Chinese suppliers recommend the following to the relevant Chinese industry association and parties to better support them
to serve LMIC markets.
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Support better alignment with international market requirements: Helping manufacturers navigate different technical and certification standards across countries can strengthen the competitiveness
of export products.
- For example, in the case of hearing aids, relevant stakeholders could assist in clarifying the distinction between certified
hearing aids and assistive listening devices (ALDs). This would support buyers in identifying products that meet their specific
needs and help suppliers communicate the intended use and classification of their products more clearly across different markets.
- For wheelchairs and prostheses, supporting enterprises in understanding the technical expectations of target markets can enhance
product consistency and relevance. Tailored guidance or reference materials for key LMIC export destinations may further assist
manufacturers in adapting to diverse requirements.
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Promote knowledge sharing of global markets: More industry events or workshops could be hosted to strengthen suppliers' understanding of global market trends and needs.
The policymakers can facilitate collaboration between Chinese manufacturers and international organizations to provide better
guidance for companies navigating local needs, regulations and standards.
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Invest in global brand building for Chinese suppliers: Organize and offer subsidies for Chinese suppliers to participate in global expos such as the European Union of Hearing Acousticians,
OT World, Reha Care, among others.
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Enhance local assembly partnerships: Foster better collaboration between LMIC distributors and manufacturers to establish local assembly. Distributors can manage
registration and logistical challenges, while Chinese suppliers provide technical transfer.
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Reduce price-only competition: The policymakers could implement regulations to curb excessive price competition that undermines product quality. For example,
it could incentivise manufacturers to prioritize innovation and feature improvements (e.g. enhanced durability) and increase
product differentiation. This could shift competitive dynamics from price wars to value-driven differentiation.51
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Administrative support for manufacturers: The policymakers could expedite the process for obtaining the Certificate of Free Sale and other required import quality
certifications for LMICs, including certification translations, to reduce time and costs for suppliers.
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Promote bilateral trade agreements and partnerships: Policymakers could promote negotiations for free trade agreements with African countries and other LMICs. It could also build
bilateral relationships to promote reduced or exempt tariffs on certain assistive products.
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Support leading suppliers to build local presence in LMICs: Encourage more leading manufacturers to join global markets with their own-brands and enhance their visibility in the international
arena.
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