China has clarified new restrictions on European Union medical device imports in government procurement projects, implementing measures it describes as reciprocal to EU trade barriers. The Ministry of Finance announced Thursday that purchases exceeding 45 million yuan ($6.29 million) must exclude EU enterprises from bidding processes unless they operate as EU-funded entities within China.
For qualifying projects, EU-funded businesses in China may participate but face a critical limitation: medical devices imported from the EU cannot exceed 50% of the total contract value. State-owned enterprise procurement remains unaffected by these rules, according to the ministry.
The measures follow the European Commission's June 2025 restrictions on Chinese medical device suppliers in EU public procurement. A Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson stated that despite repeated attempts at dialogue, the EU "insisted on building new protectionist barriers," leaving China "no choice" but to respond with equivalent measures to ensure fair competition.
Analysts suggest the move reflects escalating trade tensions in strategic sectors, with medical technology becoming a focal point. The rules aim to balance market access while protecting domestic industries, though some experts warn of potential supply chain disruptions for high-end medical equipment.
