China Strikes Back: New Regulations Limiting EU Medical Device Imports
This strategic decision comes as a direct response to heightened tensions with the EU, impacting medical device imports.
In a significant move underscoring growing trade tensions, China has unveiled new measures targeting medical device imports from the European Union (EU). Following the European Union’s decision to limit Chinese enterprises’ activities, China is responding with its own constraints.
New Procurement Regulations
The Ministry of Finance announced that effective July 6, 2025, any government procurement project purchasing medical devices with a budget exceeding 45 million yuan must comply with new restrictions. If the need to purchase imported products arises, EU enterprises, except EU-funded businesses operating within China, will be largely excluded from bidding.
For projects requiring medical devices from non-EU enterprises, the proportion of EU-imported devices cannot surpass 50% of the procurement’s total contract value.
Exceptions and Transition
In scenarios where only EU imports can fulfill procurement needs, the restrictions are waived. Projects announcing winning bids before the regulation’s rollout remain unaffected, honoring existing government procurement agreements.
Strategic Response
This move reflects China’s strategic response to the EU’s new restrictions on Chinese business activities across Europe. It’s a tactical approach intended to protect national interests and foster greater self-reliance in critical sectors.
Broader Impacts
The ripple effect of these new regulations could influence broader sectors beyond healthcare, potentially reshaping the landscape of government procurements across China. As the world watches, economic analysts predict shifts in trade partnerships and procurement strategies.
According to BusinessToday Malaysia, this development could alter the dynamics of international trade relations in significant ways, compelling stakeholders to recalibrate their approaches to international collaborations.
Through these actions, China signals its resolve to advocate for its industries and ensure balanced trade with international partners, all amidst a backdrop of evolving global economic policies.
