The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) has strongly criticized new EU restrictions barring Chinese medical device manufacturers from public procurement contracts exceeding €5 million. Approved by EU member states on Monday, the five-year measures utilize the bloc's International Procurement Instrument (IPI) to limit market access for Chinese firms.
CCCEU Warns of Protectionist Shift
In a sharply worded statement, the chamber called the decision 'discriminatory' and warned it contradicts EU commitments to open markets. 'This targeted use of the IPI undermines years of balanced economic engagement,' the CCCEU noted, highlighting that European companies have enjoyed extensive access to China's $170 billion medical device market.
Reciprocity Debate Intensifies
The dispute centers on the EU's 2022 IPI framework, designed to enforce 'market reciprocity.' However, the CCCEU argues the measures ignore existing trade realities: 'European firms secured 45% of China's high-end medical equipment imports last year. True reciprocity requires acknowledging mutual benefits already achieved.'
Broader Trade Implications
The chamber linked the move to growing global protectionism, referencing recent unilateral tariffs by multiple economies. Analysts suggest the restrictions could impact over €800 million in annual cross-border procurement activity. The CCCEU urged EU policymakers to reconsider the measures, emphasizing Chinese firms' contributions to European healthcare innovation and job creation.
