Now is the best time for foreign institutions to invest in China's healthcare industry, a forum in Beijing was told on Thursday.

The advice came from Anna Zhao, manager with Healthcare & Life Sciences China under the UK trade and investment section of the British embassy.

"Considering the existing political environment for private capital to take part in the healthcare industry, and the strong market demand, now is the best time to invest in China's healthcare sector," she said.

Bupa, a UK-based health insurance company, has been seeking a Chinese partner to set up a joint venture insurance company in China. Some UK private hospitals are also seeking investment opportunities in China, according to Zhao.

A summit focusing on international healthcare, health insurance and health tourism will be held during the Beijing Fair, which is scheduled to open on May 28.

To date, a number of private institutions, such as the Oasis International Wellness Club and Oasis Healthcare have decided to attend the summit.