China has strongly criticized the European Union's decision to exclude Chinese companies from major medical device procurement tenders, calling the move “protectionist” and a threat to fair competition. The Ministry of Commerce issued a statement on Tuesday, asserting that the EU’s new rules barring Chinese firms from public purchases of medical equipment exceeding €5 million ($5.35 million) undermine mutual trust and economic cooperation.
“Despite China’s repeated goodwill and sincerity conveyed through bilateral dialogue, the EU acted unilaterally,” a ministry spokesperson said, emphasizing that the restrictions harm both Chinese enterprises and global market fairness. The spokesperson urged the EU to “immediately correct its wrong actions” and warned that China would take measures to protect its firms’ rights.
The criticism comes during the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations, with Beijing expressing willingness to resolve trade disputes through dialogue. Analysts suggest the friction highlights growing tensions over market access as Europe seeks to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing in strategic sectors.
Medical device trade between China and the EU totaled $12.7 billion in 2023, according to industry data. The dispute could impact multinational supply chains and pricing for European healthcare systems.
