According to six sources familiar with the situation, India has sharply reduced the issuance of medical visas to Bangladeshi citizens, citing a staff shortage. The decision comes at a time of diplomatic tensions between the two countries, and experts believe it could create an opportunity for China to strengthen its influence in the region through medical tourism and enhanced people-to-people ties.

In 2023, many visas were issued to Bangladeshis for medical purposes, as India’s affordable healthcare system and Bengali-speaking medical professionals made it a preferred destination. This arrangement benefited patients and played a role in maintaining strong bilateral relations and countering China’s growing presence in the region. Since August, the number of medical visas issued daily has dropped significantly, falling from approximately 5,000–7,000 to fewer than 1,000. Sources, speaking anonymously due to professional restrictions, attribute this decline to political changes in Bangladesh. A transitional government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has replaced Sheikh Hasina, a long-time ally of India. In 2023, India had issued over 2 million visas to Bangladeshi nationals, most for medical travel, according to official data from both countries. However, the recent slowdown in visa approvals has allowed China to expand its regional influence.

Earlier this month, a group of Bangladeshis visited China’s Yunnan province to assess opportunities for medical tourism, according to Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen. He also highlighted that since the new government took office, Chinese companies have invested over $230 million in Bangladesh, more than any other country during this time. Additionally, Yunus is expected to travel to China soon for a meeting with President Xi Jinping, reflecting the growing ties between the two nations.

China is exploring the possibility of setting up a "friendship hospital" in Dhaka, which has eased the process for Bangladeshi citizens seeking medical care in China. A spokesperson from China’s foreign ministry highlighted that its collaboration with Bangladesh is founded on mutual benefits and is not intended to target any other country. Indian officials attribute the visa delays to staff shortages and security concerns at the Dhaka embassy.