BRICs not delivering promises of high growth in health care markets, says F&S

Health care organizations expanding into emerging markets such as the BRICs (Brazil, Russia, India and China) are realizing there are no shortcuts. This is proving particularly challenging, considering the current health care environment, especially in the USA. Companies must change the dialogue around BRIC, as it is now more about establishing value, customizing to local needs, and building regional partnerships to build a sustainable business, according to market research group Frost & Sullivan.

"While mature economies across the globe grapple with reducing cost, towering budget deficits, and anemic growth, the BRICs are expanding rapidly and driving the global economy," said Frost & Sullivan partner Reenita Das during a recent analyst briefing. Ms Das continued: "Although emerging markets are often touted as the way forward for health care companies, recent protectionism laws and fierce competition from generics may have reduced the appeal of countries such as India and China, leading some to believe they aren't the ‘promised land' they once were."