3D-printed metal implants modelled on human bones are offering patients customised treatment at a lower cost, helping to improve recovery outcomes.

At the Belt & Road Summit 2021, a Hong Kong medical technology company specialising in 3D-printed metal implants signed a co-operation agreement with the Kazakh Research Institute of Oncology & Radiology. The partnership introduced medical 3D printing technology to Kazakhstan, marking a milestone for Hong Kong’s medical innovation exports.

Chief Executive John Lee will lead a delegation to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in June. The 3D printing team believes the earlier agreement has laid a solid foundation for further collaboration. During the upcoming visit, the company’s CEO will join the delegation to sign a new co-operation agreement with Kazakhstan, aimed at introducing more advanced technologies and expanding business opportunities.

The company’s Chief Technology Officer Sun Hao-ran said the team is looking to broaden its scope of collaboration.

“In the future, we aim to handle more clinical cases and also seek the potential for local manufacturing and collaboration on more advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and other technologies.

“We can bring the standard of Hong Kong technologies and clinical services to all of Central Asia, not only Kazakhstan, but also Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries.”

The company maintains close collaboration with Hong Kong universities. Its team believes that partnerships between the medical and innovation sectors are vital to entering the Central Asian market, while expanding Hong Kong’s role in global healthcare.

Chief of Division of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Hong Kong Faculty of Dentistry Richard Su said such collaboration helps strengthen long-term ties.

“Through the company, we can establish more connections with local hospitals and even local universities. That will be beneficial in the long term, for Hong Kong universities’ research and also for patient care.”

The team also advises businesses seeking to expand overseas to introduce innovative technologies, gain a thorough understanding of local cultures and establish strong ties with stakeholders to build mutual trust.