The inaugural ASEAN Care Readiness Index 2026, commissioned by Messe Düsseldorf Asia, reveals that whilst 94% of healthcare and MedTech leaders across six ASEAN markets feel prepared for the next three to five years, 98% acknowledge looming pressures that could test this readiness. The Index, which surveyed 300 leaders from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, highlights digital transformation and AI as the most cited future pressures, with 54% of respondents identifying them as key challenges.
The Index findings underscore a significant capability gap in digital health and AI, noted by 44% of respondents. This gap is more than twice the proportion citing MedTech innovation as a concern. Investment priorities reflect this, with 60% of leaders advocating for prioritising digital health, AI, data, and interoperability.
Market-specific pressures vary significantly. In Singapore, ageing populations and workforce shortages are the primary concerns, each cited by 48% of respondents. In contrast, digital transformation and AI are the leading pressures in Indonesia (66%), Vietnam (62%), and Malaysia (52%). Thailand faces growing demand for rehabilitation and long-term care (54%), whilst the Philippines grapples with rising healthcare demand (54%) and technology implementation challenges (60%).
Lars Wismer, Managing Director of Messe Düsseldorf Asia, emphasised the need for cohesive investment in technology and workforce to meet these challenges: “Confidence is a strong starting point, but readiness cannot stand still.”
The Index will be unveiled at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, during Medical Fair Asia, Medical Manufacturing Asia, and RehaCare Asia from 9–11 September 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from the healthcare ecosystem.
