The European Union has moved to limit access for Chinese medical device suppliers to its public procurement market, following a vote by member states on Monday. The decision, which targets contracts exceeding €5 million ($5.4 million) over the next five years, marks the first application of the EU’s International Procurement Instrument aimed at ensuring reciprocity in trade relations.
The move comes amid heightened trade friction, including recent EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and Beijing’s anti-dumping probe into EU brandy. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic is scheduled to meet Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Paris this week, with tensions expected to dominate discussions.
According to a European Commission investigation cited in reports, Chinese companies were found to favor domestic suppliers in procurement processes. The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU expressed "profound disappointment," stating the decision overlooks European firms’ significant market access in China. Xinhua News Agency emphasized China’s commitment to trade liberalization, noting its efforts to "create opportunities for shared development" despite global protectionist trends.
Analysts suggest the restrictions could reshape supply chains for critical healthcare equipment, prompting businesses to reassess cross-border partnerships. The development underscores growing economic recalibration between major powers, with implications for global markets and diplomatic ties.
