China Condemns EU’s Protectionist Medical Device Ban

(MENAFN) China has strongly condemned the European Union’s recent protectionist move aimed at barring Chinese companies and products from participating in major public procurement contracts for medical devices, the Ministry of Commerce announced on Tuesday.

This reaction follows the European Commission’s decision last Friday to limit access for Chinese firms and goods in public procurement tenders within the medical device industry, using the EU’s International Procurement Instrument as the basis for the restriction.

A spokesperson for China’s commerce ministry called on the EU to correct its misguided policy and promised that China will take necessary steps to defend the legitimate rights and interests of its businesses.

The ministry’s investigation, completed in January, found that the EU has consistently imposed obstacles on Chinese companies, particularly in public procurement and investment sectors.

The spokesperson emphasized that despite China’s repeated gestures of goodwill and earnestness in bilateral discussions, the EU has continued to implement unilateral restrictions and raise new protectionist walls, actions that not only damage Chinese enterprises but also significantly undermine fair competition.

Highlighting the milestone of 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the EU this year, the spokesperson affirmed China’s commitment to prioritize the broader economic and trade interests shared by both sides. China is prepared to honor the key agreements made by leaders of the two parties, handle trade disputes through dialogue and consultation, and reinforce mutual confidence and cooperation prospects between Chinese and European companies.

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