On 26 November 2025, Task Force Health Care hosted a Health~Holland Country Update focused on opportunities for Dutch Life Sciences & Health (LSH) innovators in China and India. Bringing together perspectives from government, industry, and entrepreneurs, the session explored how Dutch organisations can navigate and succeed in two of the world’s most dynamic and complex healthcare markets.
Both China and India continue to offer strong potential for Dutch innovation, provided organisations take a long-term, partnership-driven approach.
Main Activities
The session combined strategic market insights with real-world experiences, offering participants a grounded view of what it takes to operate successfully in China and India.
China: Navigating Scale, Ageing, and Sustainability
Insights from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China highlighted how China’s healthcare demand is being reshaped by rapid ageing, system reform, and sustainability ambitions. While economic growth is slowing, China remains a major global healthcare market, with strong opportunities in pharmaceuticals, MedTech, healthy ageing, and greener healthcare systems, including initiatives such as Green Hospitals.
From an industry perspective, Philips China illustrated how existing public–private bridges can help Dutch SMEs enter the market more effectively. Rather than starting from scratch, participants were encouraged to leverage established networks, regulatory pathways, and matchmaking platforms to accelerate entry and reduce risk.
India: A Market of Many Markets
The update also explored India’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Perspectives from the Embassy of the Netherlands in India highlighted India’s strong MedTech investment climate, growing AI talent base, and high import dependency, all factors creating opportunities for Dutch solutions.
Entrepreneurial experiences from Nicolab and Philips reinforced the complexity of the Indian market. Rather than one single market, India consists of many regional and institutional micro-markets, where success depends on trust, affordability, and strong local partnerships supported by a clear value proposition.
Key Takeaways
1. China and India remain strategically important growth markets for Dutch LSH organisations
2. Ageing populations, digitalisation, and sustainability are key demand drivers
3. Leveraging existing networks and partnerships significantly lowers entry barriers
4. Long-term engagement and local adaptation are essential for success
What’s Next
The session concluded with a Quick Scan, led by Daphne Elberse (TFHC), helping participants reflect on their readiness and identify potential next steps for entering or expanding in China and India.
TFHC will continue supporting Dutch organisations through market intelligence, matchmaking, and strategic guidance to translate ambition into sustainable international impact.
Stay connected
For more information about this mission or opportunities for collaboration, feel free to reach out:
Phone: +31 6 12 76 09 68
Email: info@tfhc.nl
