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The upgraded flat-panel digital radiography system has been entirely designed and assembled by Pakistani engineers utilizing local resources. Photo: Express
The country’s first domestically manufactured advanced X-ray machine was revealed at the 22nd Health Asia International Exhibition and Conference in Karachi on Thursday.
Muhammad Rafiq, Director of Rays Medical World, explained that the company previously produced basic X-ray machines that are now installed in numerous hospitals across Pakistan. The latest version is an improved Flat Panel Digital Radiography (FDR) system, fully designed and assembled by Pakistani engineers using local resources.
“Imported advanced X-ray machines cost around Rs15 million, but ours are priced at Rs4 million,” Rafiq told The Express Tribune. “Hospitals like Chughtai Lab and Kutiyana Memon Hospital are already using these versions,” he added. “Our model is much more affordable than imported ones, which makes advanced radiography accessible to more local hospitals.” He also mentioned plans to export the device in the near future.
“Our goal with this new design is to make the machine portable so that a single FDR can be used for chest and other types of X-rays. It’s a fully digital system that can even be operated via a mobile phone,” Rafiq explained.
The event was inaugurated by Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal and attracted a large crowd of government officials, healthcare professionals, industry experts, and international visitors.
“Events like Health Asia showcase the growing potential of Pakistan’s healthcare and medical technology sectors,” Kamal said. “More of these exhibitions should be held regularly to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure along modern lines,” he added.
Other Exhibitors:
Aman Ventures showcased a digital health platform called AViCA, streamlining healthcare for patients and providers. They also introduced AViCardia, a waterproof, reusable patch capable of monitoring heart activity continuously for up to seven days—allowing quick assessments of heart health (a portable ECG).
“This device is the first of its kind in Pakistan,” stated a product manager from Aman Ventures, noting it’s currently being used in two Karachi hospitals.
Al-Bashir Custom Fabrication specializes in tailored vehicles, producing and delivering locally manufactured ambulances customized to meet specific hospital needs, as well as police and private vehicles.
Boston Health AI has developed Hami, the world’s first AI-powered physician’s assistant, which helps gather patient histories, creates clinical notes, and offers treatment suggestions. They claim Hami aims to make patient consultations more efficient by reducing time spent on history-taking, allowing more focus on diagnosis and treatment discussions.
Hammad Foundation runs charitable initiatives like roti banks providing Rs10 rotis in Karachi, water supply projects across Balochistan and Tharparkar, and a medical complex offering services for just Rs50 to Rs100—these services are open to everyone.
Novacare Hospital, Pakistan’s first international digital hospital, is scheduled to open in Islamabad in October 2026, aiming to operate entirely digitally and plans to expand to Lahore and Karachi. They intend to adhere to British NHS standards, with international auditors conducting quality assessments.
Taskin Bioregeneration, an Iranian biotech firm, specializes in cell and gene therapies. Their DestroCell technology targets autism by reducing brain inflammation, supporting neural repair, and improving social behavior in children. They also develop treatments for wound healing, with hopes of offering these services in Pakistan soon.
Behrad Royesh Royan, based in Iran, is a leading manufacturer of gynecology and infertility medical equipment. They have already exported products to Russia, Lebanon, and Iraq and are now exploring opportunities to partner with hospitals in Pakistan.
Additional reporting by Daniyal Khuhro.
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