In a move to safeguard its national interests and ensure fair competition, the Chinese mainland's Ministry of Commerce announced on Sunday that it will introduce reciprocal measures targeting medical devices imported from the EU in government procurement.
Speaking at a daily briefing, a ministry spokesperson emphasized that these restrictions apply solely to EU-sourced medical equipment bought through government channels. Importantly, production by European-funded enterprises operating within the Chinese mainland will continue unaffected.
This decision reflects growing trade tensions between the Chinese mainland and the EU. By limiting the scope to procurement, the Chinese mainland aims to send a clear signal without fully cutting off European-made medical supplies in the domestic market.
Industry observers note that such targeted policies can reshape supply chains. While hospitals and public health agencies may need to find alternative sources for certain EU products, local and overseas-funded manufacturers in the Chinese mainland could see new opportunities.
As both sides eye further negotiations, global businesses and policymakers will watch how these measures influence medical device availability, pricing, and broader EU-Chinese mainland trade relations in the coming months.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
