Chinese companies will be excluded from bidding on certain large-scale public contracts for medical devices in the European Union, the bloc’s executive arm announced on Friday.

The European Commission stated that the restriction applies to contracts valued at over €5 million ($5.7 million) and marks the first application of a 2022 EU regulation aimed at combating discriminatory practices against European firms abroad.

The regulation enables the EU to impose penalties on countries that restrict access for European companies in public procurement.

Officials in Brussels say the move is aimed at encouraging more reciprocal market conditions, particularly in China, where EU suppliers face steep barriers.

“This response is proportionate to China’s barriers while ensuring that all the necessary medical devices are available for the EU healthcare system.

“Exceptions will be in place where no alternative suppliers exist,” a commission statement said.

According to EU data, nearly 90 per cent of Chinese public tenders for medical devices disadvantage EU-made products and companies.

This is despite a surge in Chinese exports of such goods to the EU, which more than doubled between 2015 and 2023.

The restriction affects a wide range of medical products, including ventilators, X-ray machines, sterilisers, wheelchairs and dressings such as plasters.

The commission has been in dialogue with Beijing since 2024 but says discussions have failed to yield satisfactory outcomes. 

(dpa/NAN)