Espicom's in-depth medical device market reports are ideal for executives wanting to understand the key drivers in medical markets and have access to a wealth of statistical data. Each report opens with an outlook section that provides analysis of the market, 5-year market forecasts, national data projections, market outlook and key developments such as regulation, health facilities and government policy. The report also provides extensive background information, population trends, health status, health expenditure, organisation & administration, hospital services, medical personnel, healthcare development, market access information, trade data and essential industry contacts. Included with the report are 3 free quarterly updated outlook reports, enabling you to keep up to date with market developments for a year. Cuba is one of the world's last unreconstructed communist countries. Ruled since the 1950s by Dr Fidel Castro, Cuba has attempted none of the economic reforms implemented in eastern Europe or even China. Despite this, the country has a reputation for the quality of its health services and health indicators, and has an impressive pharmaceutical/biotechnology research sector. This reputation is deserved in part, but conceals an ageing healthcare system in increasingly dire need of restructuring and modernising, none of which can be achieved without greatly increased funding. There is some evidence of a reduction in bed numbers in recent years, although whether this is due to planned reform or a lack of operating capital is unclear.

During the Cold War, Cuba, a major Soviet ally, remained a largely closed market to the West. During the 1990s, however, many countries in the West established links with the country. A large number of Chinese companies are present in the market.

The USA, virtually alone, maintains its embargo against Cuba. This is starting to hurt US healthcare firms, as companies based in Asia, Canada and Western Europe have the high-tech market to themselves. The international healthcare industry is taking an increasing interest in Cuba, which in turn has made efforts to integrate into the global marketplace in an attempt to realign its geopolitical position and attract new funding for its healthcare system.

There is virtually no private sector activity in Cuba, so any firm wishing to export to Cuba will need to deal with the Cuban government almost exclusively as both regulator and purchaser. During the 1990s, Cuba created a regulatory framework which is increasingly based on international standards and precedents. Price and aftersales service are likely to be the key considerations when negotiating sales.

Cuba has a number of companies engaged in the import/export and distribution of medical supplies. These rarey specialise, dealing with pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and other healthcare products. Principal among these are Medicuba and Servimed.