The recent survey conducted by the European Commission highlights discriminatory practices against EU medical device companies in the Chinese market. Evidence shows that China imposes unfair restrictions, thereby hindering European producers’ access to state contracts. This finding raises doubts about the fairness of the business climate between Europe and China, prompting the EU to consider appropriate measures to ensure fair competition.

The European Commission has revealed clear evidence of systematic discrimination by China against medical device manufacturers from the EU in its public contracts. This conclusion comes from the first survey conducted under the International Procurement Instrument, established in August 2022 to ensure equitable opportunities for European companies in foreign markets. The report highlights the complex situation surrounding the “Buy Chinese” policy, which favors domestic products, imposing increasing barriers to access for European medical equipment, and cites certification requirements and clauses excluding foreign companies. The Commission is currently considering countermeasures to restore balance in trade practices with China.

A recent survey conducted by the European Commission has revealed compelling evidence of systematic discrimination against imported medical devices in the context of Chinese public procurement. According to the results published by the executive, it appears that European manufacturers face significant obstacles in accessing government contracts in China. The survey is part of the new International Procurement Instrument (IPI), which aims to ensure fair competition for EU companies in the global market.

Controversial procurement practices

The survey highlighted the “Made in China 2025” strategy, which requires hospitals to prioritize locally produced medical devices. The results show that since the implementation of this policy, access for European candidates has become increasingly restricted. In recent years, the decline in the number of approved imported medical devices in regions such as the Guangdong Province is particularly striking, falling from 132 in 2019 to only 46 in 2021.

Towards EU countermeasures

In light of this alarming situation, the EU is now examining options for countermeasures to restore balance in trade practices between the EU and China. It is essential that European companies have the opportunity to compete on an equal footing, despite the restrictions imposed by Chinese procurement policies. This commitment is affirmed in various statements and analyses made by European decision-makers, who are assessing the potential implications of these measures on trade relations.