KARACHI – Pakistan marked a significant milestone in its medical technology sector this week as the country’s first locally manufactured advanced X-ray machine was officially unveiled at the 22nd Health Asia International Exhibition and Conference in Karachi on Thursday.
The breakthrough device an upgraded Flat Panel Digital Radiography (FDR) system has been designed and assembled entirely by Pakistani engineers, a development that industry experts say could drastically reduce the country’s reliance on imported medical equipment.
According to Muhammad Rafiq, Director of Rays Medical World, the company had previously produced basic X-ray machines already in use at several hospitals nationwide. The newly launched model, however, represents a major technological leap forward.
“An imported advanced X-ray system costs around Rs15 million, while our version is priced at only Rs4 million,” Rafiq explained. “Hospitals such as Chughtai Lab and Kutiyana Memon Hospital are already using these machines. The low cost makes digital radiography far more accessible for healthcare facilities across Pakistan.”
Rafiq further shared that the new system is fully digital and mobile-friendly, allowing users to operate it remotely through a smartphone interface. “The design is portable a single FDR unit can now handle chest as well as other types of X-rays. Our goal was to create something practical, affordable, and efficient,” he said.
The event was inaugurated by Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal, who praised the innovation as a symbol of Pakistan’s growing potential in medical technology manufacturing.
“Events like Health Asia reflect how Pakistan’s healthcare sector is evolving,” Kamal remarked. “Such exhibitions should be encouraged more often, as they bridge innovation and industry, helping to modernize our healthcare system.”
Other Notable Exhibitors
Alongside Rays Medical World, several other companies showcased cutting-edge healthcare technologies during the exhibition:
- Heartbeat Monitoring Patch:
Aman Ventures introduced AViCardia, a waterproof, reusable heart-monitoring patch offering up to seven days of Holter monitoring. The device allows patients and doctors to track heart rhythms in real time. “It’s the first of its kind in Pakistan,” said a company representative, adding that it’s currently being used at two Karachi hospitals. - Customized Ambulances:
Al-Bashir Custom Fabrication displayed locally made, tailor-fitted ambulances designed according to each hospital’s requirements. The company also builds customized vehicles for police and private use. - AI-Powered Healthcare Assistant:
Boston Health AI unveiled Hami described as the world’s first AI-powered physician assistant. The technology can take patient histories, generate clinical notes, and even suggest treatments, aiming to reduce consultation times and improve record accuracy. - Healthcare Charity:
Hammad Foundation highlighted its humanitarian projects, including Roti Banks that sell bread for Rs10, water filtration plants in Balochistan and Tharparkar, and a medical complex in Karachi that provides treatments for just Rs50–100. - Digital Hospital Project:
Novacare Hospital, Pakistan’s first fully digital international healthcare venture, is expected to open in Islamabad by October 2026. It aims to operate entirely on digital systems modeled after the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), with future expansions planned in Lahore and Karachi. - Cell and Gene Therapy:
Taskin Bioregeneration, an Iranian biotech firm, showcased DestroCell a therapy designed to treat children with Autism by aiding brain repair and improving communication pathways. The company hopes to introduce its services to Pakistan soon. - Infertility Treatments:
Behrad Royesh Royan, another Iranian medical firm specializing in gynaecology and infertility solutions, is exploring partnerships with Pakistani hospitals. The company already exports its equipment to Russia, Lebanon, and Iraq.
The exhibition, which drew healthcare professionals, government officials, and international delegates, offered a glimpse into the future of Pakistan’s health tech industry one that is increasingly innovative, self-reliant, and ready to make its mark globally.
