In a move sure to rattle both Beijing and Brussels, the European Commission announced this week it will bar Chinese companies from participating in public procurement tenders for medical devices valued at over €5 million (around $5.35 million).
The Chinese mainland's Ministry of Commerce swiftly responded, labeling the EU's move as a unilateral, protectionist action that not only harms Chinese enterprises but also undermines fair competition. A spokesperson stressed that, despite repeated goodwill and sincerity in bilateral dialogue, Brussels used a one-sided tool to erect new barriers.
A Pivotal Anniversary and a Call for Dialogue
As China and the EU commemorate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, tensions over trade policy have come into sharper focus. The Chinese mainland urged the EU to immediately correct its actions and warned it would take measures to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
At the same time, Beijing expressed readiness to continue dialogue and consultation with Brussels, properly address economic and trade frictions, and stabilize confidence in China-EU business cooperation.
For global investors, tech innovators, and policy watchers alike, this clash serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between trade policy and geopolitics. As both sides weigh protection and openness, the world is watching to see if compromise or confrontation will prevail.
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China voices opposition to EU's limits on medical device procurement
cgtn.com
