KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 11): Alpha IVF Group Bhd's (KL:ALPHA) subsidiary Alpha International (Shanghai) Medical Consulting Ltd has launched a new operation in Shanghai, China, to capitalise on the country's rapidly growing in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) market, and expand the group's regional presence.

In a statement on Wednesday, the group said the Shanghai office, which began operations on Sept 4, would serve as a gateway for Chinese patients to access Alpha IVF’s services and expertise directly.

“The Shanghai office will provide Alpha IVF a platform to promote its advanced fertility services to Chinese residents, including preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGTA), an embryo screening technique for chromosomal abnormalities currently unavailable in China,” it said.

The statement also highlighted the group’s focus on its high IVF success rates and plans to streamline the process for Chinese patients seeking treatment in Malaysia.

Alpha IVF group managing director Datuk Dr Colin Lee Soon Soo expressed optimism about the group's opportunities in China.

He was confident that contributions from Chinese patients would not only return to pre-pandemic levels but surpass them, especially with the reopening of borders and the establishment of the new office.

“Our Shanghai sales representative office aims to enhance the patient experience, reduce logistical challenges and intermediary costs, and further our mission of making advanced fertility treatments accessible to those in need,” he said.

The group noted that its entry into China marks Alpha IVF’s second international expansion following its initial public offering in March.

This follows its recent venture into the Philippines through a strategic joint venture, forming Alpha IVF (Manila) Inc.

"The Shanghai office is projected to handle over 150 egg retrieval procedures annually, significantly increasing the number of Chinese patients seeking treatment in Malaysia and strengthening the group’s financial performance,” it added.