What Measures is China Taking Against EU Medical Device Imports?
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Synopsis
In a significant policy shift, China is set to impose restrictions on medical devices imported from the EU through government procurement. This move follows EU measures that limit Chinese firms' participation in the EU market, highlighting growing tensions in international trade. Read on to discover how these changes will impact the procurement landscape.
Key Takeaways
- China is set to impose measures on EU medical device imports.
- Restrictions will affect government procurement projects over 45 million yuan.
- Participation of EU enterprises will be excluded unless legally justified.
- Non-EU suppliers can only provide 50% of medical devices from the EU.
- Measures take effect from July 6, 2025.
Beijing, July 6 (NationPress) - The Ministry of Finance has announced that China will implement specific measures concerning the procurement of medical devices from the European Union (EU) in compliance with relevant legislation.
Purchasers planning to acquire medical devices with a budget exceeding 45 million yuan (approximately 6.29 million U.S. dollars) must exclude participation from EU enterprises (excluding those funded by the EU operating within China), unless necessary legal procedures are followed.
For non-EU companies involved in government procurement, their supply of medical devices from the EU must not exceed 50 percent of the total contract value.
These restrictions will not apply to procurement projects solely reliant on EU-imported medical devices, as stated by the ministry.
The measures will take effect on July 6, 2025. Contracts for procurement projects already awarded or with finalized transaction results prior to this date will remain unaffected, and the ministry has confirmed that government procurement agreements may still be executed.
A spokesperson from China’s commerce ministry remarked on Sunday, highlighting that the European Commission introduced measures on June 20, 2025, which inhibit Chinese firms from engaging in public procurement of medical devices within the EU, thereby continuing to create barriers against Chinese enterprises, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The spokesperson reiterated China’s commitment to resolving differences with the EU through bilateral dialogue and consultation regarding government procurement arrangements.
Unfortunately, despite China’s efforts and goodwill, the EU has persisted in imposing restrictive measures, establishing new protectionist barriers, the spokesperson pointed out.
Thus, China feels compelled to enact reciprocal restrictions to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises and to uphold a fair competitive landscape, the spokesperson explained.
The ministry clarified that these measures specifically target medical devices imported from the EU, while those produced by EU-funded enterprises in China remain unaffected.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that China's decision to implement these measures against EU medical device imports is rooted in reciprocity amid growing trade tensions. While these actions may seem protectionist, they reflect a broader strategy to safeguard national interests and promote fair competition in the global market.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new measures China is implementing?
China is implementing measures that restrict the participation of EU enterprises in government procurement of medical devices, particularly for contracts over 45 million yuan, and limits the percentage of EU-sourced devices from non-EU suppliers.
When will these measures take effect?
The new measures will come into effect on July 6, 2025.
How do these measures affect existing contracts?
Contracts for procurement projects that have already announced winning bids before July 6, 2025, will not be affected, allowing them to continue as planned.
What prompted China to take these measures?
The measures were prompted by the European Commission's restrictions on Chinese enterprises' participation in the EU's public procurement of medical devices.
Are EU-funded enterprises in China affected by these measures?
No, the measures do not apply to medical devices produced by EU-funded enterprises operating within China.
