Dr Sanjeev K Chaudhry, CEO of SRL India and managing director of SRL Nepal, was in the capital for the inauguration. Samiksha Koirala of Republica talked with Dr Chaudhry to know about the new venture and its business plans. [break]Excerpts:
What potential does the Nepali market hold for your multinational company?
We see Nepal as a country with rapidly growing economy. Besides, no matter which country it is, they are always ready to invest for health care. We have been receiving hundreds of specimens from Nepal. Apart from this, Nepal and India have many things in common, including geography, culture and economy. I am hopeful this a good start.
Tell us about the investment and partnership of the joint venture.
Initially, we have invested Rs 50 million and we are planning to expand it. Both partnering companies have equal stake in SRL Nepal. We were looking for a company that knows Nepali market better than us and we are happy to get esteemed organization as our partner.
What will SRL do in Nepal? How do you differentiate it from other pathology labs?
We are currently offering 150 types of tests and very soon we will introduce about 300 tests. SRL Nepal has eight collection centers across the country. The new lab will provide different segments of clinical pathology, including biochemistry, microbiology and hematology. We have global accreditations and are working to provide accurate solution with ethical standards. Besides, the lab in Kathmandu has the excellent team of 40 doctors and technicians and equipped with latest technology.
How much market share you are eyeing? Do you have plans to make more investment in Nepal?
We plan to have up to 40 percent market share in about the next two or three years. We will increase the services, employees and of course the investment with time, as this is just the beginning. We are also planning to open international standard hospital here in the next two years. We are very optimistic of getting a good response here as we have joined hands with corporate leader like Ravi Bhakta Shrestha.
How do you think the lab will cater to low income groups?
When one can have all necessary tests in his/her country itself, definitely becomes cheaper. The lab often provides tests at cheaper price than other labs as we do it in large volume. We are also open to give special prices to needy people if approached by government hospitals
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