Medical Device Industry Body Welcomes UCMPMD Amendment for Ethical Marketing

The Association said the reform would bring much-needed transparency, fairness, and accountability to India’s MedTech sector.

The Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD), which represents the interests of over 1,800 medical device manufacturers across the country, has welcomed the government’s notification amending the Uniform Code for Marketing Practices in Medical Devices (UCMPMD).

The Association said the reform would bring much-needed transparency, fairness, and accountability to India’s MedTech sector.

“At AiMeD we welcome the Universal Code of Ethical Marketing of Medical Devices and the simplified annual reporting format. The Code ensures ethical and transparent marketing, fostering fair competition and stronger reputations for both domestic and overseas manufacturers. Patients benefit through safer devices, trustworthy information, and freedom from exploitative promotions,” said Rajiv Nath, forum coordinator, AiMeD.

The revised framework prohibits gifts, cash grants, and personal travel or hospitality benefits to healthcare professionals and their families. Industry associations will be required to retain disclosure data for five years, with stricter penalties for violations.

AiMeD noted that by mandating transparent disclosures and curbing inducements, the UCMPMD will create a level playing field, reduce unfair practices, and enhance public trust in medical devices and the healthcare ecosystem.

The Association further urged companies to ensure timely compliance, highlighting that the reforms reward ethical players while strengthening patient-centric practices.

According to the circular issued by the ministry of chemicals and fertilizers, the amendments include mandatory annual disclosure norms, simplified reporting formats, and clearer valuation rules for free samples.

Chief executives or managing directors of medical device companies will now have to file annual declarations of marketing expenditure within two months of the close of the financial year.

For FY25, the deadline has been extended till September 30, 2025. The code caps free evaluation samples at 2% of domestic sales, with valuation to be recorded at stockist price if manufactured in-house, or at purchase price if sourced externally.

Companies must also disclose spending on samples, CME programmes, event sponsorships, and seek pre-approvals for specialist doctors’ international travel, lodging, and hospitality in a newly prescribed annexure format.

India’s medical device sector, currently valued at around $20 billion, is projected to grow to $50 billion by 2030 under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

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