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. The Syrian Arab Republic borders the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea between Lebanon and Turkey. The president is Dr Bashar al-Assad who assumed office in July 2000. Syria has an estimated population of 18.4 million; Damascus is the capital.

The Syrian market for medical equipment and supplies amounted to US$35 million in 2005. The market is not fast-growing, having been at this level for some years. At just under US$2 per capita, expenditure is one of the lowest in the region, comparable to levels found in Morocco and Iran. Syria has very little domestic production; imports therefore dominate the market. Syria has yet to attract aid or investment from abroad, although there are signs that the country's international standing is improving in this respect.

Syria does have a number of modern facilities in its major cities, and the government has committed itself to expanding the hospital and clinic sectors over the next ten years; this is likely is provide opportunities for overseas suppliers. Healthcare coverage and expenditure remain very low, and funding is a significant problem. The private hospital sector is large but fragmented, so opportunities here will fluctuate from year to year.