Global healthcare spending to grow by 6% in 2025

It is driven by increased public expenditure in low- and middle-income countries.

Global healthcare spending is projected to rise by 6% in 2025 in US-dollar terms, driven by increased public expenditure in low- and middle-income countries, according to the EIU.

The report revealed that growth will also be rapid in wealthier nations with ageing populations and is expected to outpace slowing inflation.

“About 12% of the world will be aged 65 or older in 2025,” it said.

Meanwhile, medical tourism is expected to drive global healthcare investment, as rising costs in North America and Western Europe push individuals to seek more affordable treatment options abroad.

Countries such as Thailand, Turkey, and the UAE, are positioning themselves as prime destinations for medical tourists by developing their healthcare specialities and workforce.

Moreover, Malaysia, through its Healthcare Travel Industry Blueprint, is aiming to establish itself as a premium medical tourism hub by 2025.