Environmental Scan 2017 | Page 76

Environmental Scan 2017: Human Capital Issues within the Medical Devices Sector No HS Code Product Description Export Value 2016 Export Value 2013 (RM million) (RM million) CAGR (2013-2016) 17 330620000 Yarn used to clean between the teeth (dental floss), in individual retail packages 59 36 18.4% 18 9022909000 X-ray generators, high tension generator, control panel & desk, screen, exam/treatment table, chairs & the like, incl. parts & accessories 21 8.2 37.7% 19 901811000 Electro-cardiographs 18 107 -45.2% 20 901890100 Self-administrating instruments appliances used in treating diabetes 15 3.9 55.9% & Source: MATRADE, Ipsos analysis The weaker Ringgit is helping to drive exports by increasing the competitiveness of the local products, especially for export markets such as Europe and the United States. On the other hand, one of the major stumbling blocks for Malaysia was the collapse of the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA). The TPPA would have provided Malaysia with market access to countries which it does not have a Free Trade Agreement, e.g. Canada, Mexico, Peru and US. The other main challenge which Malaysia and many other middle tier countries are facing is the rising competition from countries like Vietnam which are able to offer similar products at a lower price due to lower labour cost. 76