Pascal Bijleveld, ATscale CEO giving opening remarks at the “International dialogue: Improving Global Access to Assistive Technology”at the China Care & Rehabilitation Expo 2024
Photo: CATDC
On November 28 2024, during the China Care and Rehabilitation Expo in Beijing an event entitled “International Dialogue: Improving Global Access to Assistive Technology” was co-hosted by the China Assistive Devices and Technology Center for Persons with Disabilities (CADTC) with support from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). This event marked a significant step forward towards enhancing market transparency and strengthening collaboration in the global assistive technology (AT) ecosystem.
“We hope that we all can learn more about each other’s needs and aspirations and build new and exciting partnerships that will enrich all our journeys. We hope this can mark the start of a long and fruitful collaboration for all present,” said Pascal Bijleveld, ATscale CEO.
The dialogue brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from the China Disabled Persons' Federation (CDPF), China Assistive Devices and Technology Center for Persons with Disabilities (CADTC), Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Organization for the Advancement of Disabled People in China (OADCPH), government representatives from Cambodia, and Chinese AT suppliers. The objective was to foster a robust dialogue between Chinese suppliers and global buyers, allowing both sides to share their needs and challenges and to collaborate on strengthening the AT ecosystem worldwide.
“Market failures prevent almost one billion people from accessing the assistive products they need, including eyeglasses, hearing aids, prostheses, wheelchairs, and digital devices. Yet assistive technology can be life-changing: it can increase the user’s access to other health care, improve the ability to participate in work and school, engage with the community, and live a more dignified life,” said Pascal.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Global Assistive Products Market report and a report on China's AT suppliers market, both of which aim to enhance market information on affordable, high-quality assistive products in low- and middle-income countries.
“This is a very good opportunity for buyers and sellers to engage directly, discussing their goals and challenges, particularly in expanding access to AT in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)” said Pascal.
Representatives from LMICs expressed a strong interest in leveraging the expanding Chinese AT manufacturing market. They emphasized on the need for high-quality products tailored to local needs, improved distribution mechanisms, and the reduction of taxes and tariffs. Additionally, they advocate for partnerships in local production and assembly, supported by technology transfer and knowledge sharing from Chinese manufacturers.
Furthermore, the event emphasized the urgent need for greater market transparency, continuous dialogue, and collaborative opportunities between China and LMICs. According to recent data, in low-income countries only 10% of people have the AT they need, in stark contrast to the 90% of people in high-income countries. “This dialogue is a crucial step towards bridging this gap and ensuring that assistive technology is accessible to all, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and equitable global society” said Pascal.
Watch Pascal’s short clip at the China Care and Rehabilitation Expo: