EU, China Escalate Medical Device Trade Dispute

Tensions between the European Union and China have intensified as both sides impose new restrictions on medical device procurement ahead of a planned summit. The EU has barred Chinese firms from bidding on public medical device contracts above €5 million, citing unfair access for European companies in China. In retaliation, China has imposed immediate restrictions on government procurement of high-value medical devices from EU companies for contracts over 45 million yuan (€6.3 million), exempting products made by EU firms within China. European business groups have criticized China's move, warning it could escalate trade friction. Both the EU and China justify their measures as necessary for fair competition, highlighting ongoing disputes over trade and market access. The path to diplomatic resolution remains unclear as both sides prepare for the upcoming summit.