India Limits Medical Visas for Bangladesh, China Expands Influence

India has significantly reduced the issuance of medical visas to Bangladesh, citing staffing shortages and deteriorating diplomatic relations, resulting in fewer than 1,000 visas daily compared to previous figures of 5,000 to 7,000. This decline has opened a door for China, which is rapidly expanding its medical tourism offerings and investing heavily in Bangladesh, with at least 14 companies committing over $230 million since the interim government took office. The shift in relations follows the ousting of long-time ally Sheikh Hasina in favor of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, which has led to heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh. As Indian medical visa approvals dwindle, Bangladeshi patients are increasingly seeking treatment in China, as evidenced by a recent group traveling to Yunnan. Yunus is also expected to visit China soon to meet President Xi Jinping, further solidifying this growing partnership. The situation presents a potential shift in regional influence, with China poised to capitalize on India's withdrawal from the medical visa landscape.