China Strikes Back: New Import Restrictions on EU Medical Devices
China implements swift import restrictions on EU medical devices, countering the EU's exclusion of Chinese companies in European procurement.
In a swift and strategic response to the European Union’s recent exclusionary measures, China has introduced new import restrictions on medical equipment from the EU. These measures, which came into effect immediately, target government procurement programs, prioritizing the interests and rights of homegrown Chinese companies.
An Immediate Response
The Ministry of Finance’s announcement on Sunday marks a significant shift in procurement policy, specifically targeting EU-imported medical devices such as surgical instruments and orthopedic implant components. For any procurement project with a budget exceeding 45 million yuan ($6.28 million), EU businesses – unless operating within China – are barred from participating.
Ensuring Fair Competition
The new guidelines imposed by China insist that non-EU procurement contracts must not have more than 50 percent of medical devices sourced from the EU. This regulation, however, makes an allowance for EU devices that uniquely meet procurement needs, ensuring that essential medical services remain unaffected.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise
The Ministry of Commerce expressed China’s willingness to resolve disputes through bilateral dialogues and arrangements. Yet, they criticized the EU for disregarding these overtures and erecting new protectionist barriers. As succinctly put by a ministry official, these actions by the EU have left China with no choice but to introduce reciprocal restrictions.
Experts Advocate Dialogue
Industry experts advocate for dialogue over restrictive measures. As Wang Qian from Shanghai University stated, “Linking market access to geopolitical considerations erodes trust and hampers cooperation.” Similarly, Chen Jianwei, a researcher at a Chinese commerce academy, underscored the importance of a fair competitive environment for innovation and advancing free trade.
A Dynamic, Growing Market
Despite the tensions, China remains a lucrative market for medical device manufacturers worldwide. Foreign direct investments in China’s high-tech industries reached 109.04 billion yuan in the first five months of 2025, with notable growth in the medical instrument sector. As stated in China Daily, these developments reflect China’s robust engagement with the global trade network even as it navigates these diplomatic challenges.
The growing ripple effect of these trade policies highlights the need for ongoing dialogue to ensure a stable global trade environment, fostering both innovation and economic development.
