Easing Import of 3D Printers
The world is entering the fourth industrial revolution which is mostly based on technologies like robotics and 3D printing. Engineers and designers are now already working remotely and making products with high precision through the use of 3D printers. 3D printing offers an excellent avenue to improve housing, food supplies, healthcare and educational facilities in developing countries.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has rather restrictive policies for the import of 3D printers, with the procedure being cumbersome and time-consuming. In 2016, Pakistan placed a ban on import of 3D printers, citing threats to national security as these printers could be used to manufacture illicit weapons. While it is correct that some components of weapons can be made through this technology, 3D printing of the most important parts like the chamber or the barrel is extremely difficult requiring high resistance to heat and explosion. It is pertinent to note that it is much easier to make such parts from a milling machine than a 3D printer. In any event, in Pakistan the manufacture of weapons is prohibited without a valid license and the penalty for doing so is up to 7 years in prison.
On the other hand, competing countries like UAE are becoming a hub for this state-of-the-art technology. Countries like Jordan and Thailand have also relaxed import regulations on 3D printers in order to kickstart their industries, health and education sector. Thus, it is high-time for Pakistan to take a cue from these countries and allow the import of 3D printers.
Currently, Pakistan faces acute shortfall of ventilators amid COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, shortage of other healthcare products such as facemasks and safety kits for medical experts is also posing serious challenges. In this regard, 3D printing technology can play a pivotal role in meeting the high demand for such essential commodities. It will not only benefit the health sector but also other sectors such as academic institutions, industries and housing sector. However, this is possible only if the government allows for and streamlines the import of 3D printers.
Recently, the commerce minister has issued a notification allowing import of 3D printers to ensure availability of ventilators. However, this is a late call as fatality is increasing with each day. For now, the numbers are expected to surge as it would take some time to manufacture ventilators from imported 3D printers. On a positive note, a group of volunteers in Lahore which includes doctors, biomedical professionals, academics and engineers have used 3D printing technology to design a device that allows a single ventilator to support multiple patients at a time.
In Pakistan, the awareness about 3D modeling and printing is gradually increasing and members of academia along with other industries are now approaching the laboratory. The 3D printers are being used in some of the education, engineering and health departments. Since it is a new field, it will require exposure and training with the proper availability of hardware and software.
Given the current situation, there are a few learning points. Due to the intricate nature of the internet of modern economies, no country can afford to completely abolish the use of 3D printers. Therefore, regulation rather than prevention should be government’s priority when it comes to handling the proliferation of 3D printing technology. It is imperative that the government withdraw tariff and non-tariff barriers on medical equipments at least till the time the crisis is over, and not just for three months. In order to facilitate the use of 3D printers for industrial, medical and academic purposes, trainings should be provided through public-private partnership.
If we continue to restrict use of such technologies, the digital divide between us and the rest of the world will accentuate. We need to embrace the technology rather than be left out.