Masahiko Miyata

Chairman
Medical Technology Association of Japan

On the occasion of my appointment as Chairman of the Medical Technology Association of Japan (MTJAPAN), I would like to extend my sincere greetings.

The global struggle against COVID-19 has finally reached a turning point, and daily life is gradually returning to normal in both society and the healthcare field. We extend our deepest respect and appreciation to all medical professionals who worked tirelessly on the front lines, as well as to our member companies, who upheld the unwavering commitment to ensure uninterrupted access to essential medical devices.

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) across many sectors, including healthcare. With a projected shortage of medical professionals, improving the efficiency and quality of healthcare delivery has become a pressing issue. In response, the medical device industry is committed to developing innovative solutions that not only enhance clinical outcomes but also strengthen the broader healthcare delivery system. We will continue to pursue this through the introduction of advanced technologies and cross-sector collaboration.

While Japan's medical device exports are expanding, the industry also faces rising global challenges, including protectionist trade policies, tariff barriers, infectious disease risks, and geopolitical disruptions to supply chains. To remain competitive on the global stage, it is essential that we first establish a stable and sustainable business foundation domestically. To this end, our association will continue to work closely with government agencies to promote regulatory harmonization and supply chain resilience, thereby advancing the global development of the medical device industry.

From the standpoint of healthcare security, the expectations and responsibilities placed on the medical device sector have grown considerably. It is more critical than ever to build systems that ensure uninterrupted access to essential medical technologies, even in times of crisis. As an industry, we are committed to ongoing improvements and to strengthening our supply networks.

Regardless of external circumstances, upholding strict compliance and high ethical standards remains a fundamental responsibility. We recognize that earning the trust of society—especially that of patients and healthcare professionals—requires transparency, integrity, and a commitment to legal and ethical conduct across the entire industry.

Japan’s healthcare system faces increasing financial pressure due to an aging population. Maintaining high-quality medical care while optimizing costs is a national imperative. Leveraging Japan’s world-renowned strengths in technology and manufacturing quality, the medical device industry must take the lead in driving innovation and enhancing international competitiveness. By aligning with the strategic goals outlined in the “Vision for the Medical Device Industry” – developed by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare – we will contribute to the creation of a sustainable healthcare system.

The Medical Technology Association of Japan remains committed to neutrality as an industrial body, while contributing to the advancement of the medical device sector and the healthcare system as a whole. We sincerely ask for the continued understanding and cooperation of our member companies, healthcare professionals, government agencies, and all related stakeholders.