China opposes EU ban on medical device firms

Beijing: China’s Ministry of Commerce has expressed strong opposition to a reported decision by EU member states to bar Chinese medical device manufacturers from participating in public procurement tenders exceeding 5 million euros (about $5.7 million) over the next five years. The move was reportedly made under the EU’s International Procurement Instrument.

In response to media inquiries, a spokesperson for the ministry said China had taken note of the development, criticizing the decision as discriminatory and harmful to Chinese businesses. “This unilateral measure distorts fair competition and creates new trade barriers,” the spokesperson stated. “China firmly opposes such protectionist practices.”

The spokesperson emphasized that, at a time when the global economic order is being undermined by unilateralism and protectionism, major economies like China and the EU should uphold WTO rules and adhere to principles of fairness, transparency and non-discrimination. “We urge the EU to correct its wrong approach,” the spokesperson added.

China will closely monitor the EU’s next moves and will take necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.