Some 130 French companies are taking part in Arab Health-Medlab exhibition that kicks off today (Jan. 25). With 1,440 m2 in exhibition space across 2 halls, one entirely dedicated to laboratory equipment and diagnostics, and expanding every year, the international trade show for medical systems offers a prime venue from them to show off their know-how. Business France – the National Agency for the Internationalization of French Business which supports them, has reported record-high registration levels for this year's event. The French medical equipment industry is powered by cutting-edge companies, 94% of which are SMEs, or even VSEs. French manufacturers are geared at diagnostic imaging tools, disposable systems, implants, prostheses and orthotics. Their innovative tools are used in two main growth markets: aging surgery and plastic surgery. They also enjoy wide recognition in the fields of technical assistance, minimally-invasive surgery and in-vitro diagnostics. On the international front, they are further borne by the French health system's positive image and leading authorities in medicine. This has brought about real cooperation between France's manufacturers and medical-surgical teams, both in R&D and in actual use of the devices produced. France's manufacturers are generally positioned on high-technology niche markets (IVD and implants). Highly dynamic, they also meet every ethical and regulatory requirement on safety and quality. Arab Health-Medlab attracts more and more manufacturers each year, from all over France, with a uniquely innovative offer; one-third of them are participating for the first time. Exhibiting in both halls, they will be unveiling their latest in products for orthopedics (surgical implants for bone surgery, prosthetics, digestive surgery), diagnostics (biopsy tools, reactants and laboratory equipment, blood analyzers), consumables and equipment for health-care establishments, air treatment (air decontamination and filtering), waste treatment, hospital supplies (medical equipment and furniture: beds, carts) and in-home care (home stay, patient transfer). With the help of regional partners such as Centreco, Lille Eurasanté, Biomédical Alliance and, for the first time, the Aquitaine Region, all on-site at the France Pavilion each with some 10 companies of its own, France's latest in innovation will be center-stage at the 2016 Arab Health Show. Their technical expertise perfectly aligns with a local market that is highly-demanding and currently burgeoning in these fields. — SG
