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EU Initiates First-Ever Procurement Probe into China's Medical Devices Sector

The European Commission will investigate barriers to market access for EU firms, marking the first use of its International Procurement Instrument.

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It will be the first time Brussels has used the international procurement instrument. Photo: Reuters
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Overview

  • The European Commission is set to launch an investigation into the procurement practices of China's medical devices sector, focusing on market access barriers for EU firms.
  • This probe marks the first application of the EU's International Procurement Instrument, adopted in 2022 to address closed procurement markets.
  • Recent high-level discussions between EU and Chinese officials have highlighted frustrations over restricted access for European companies.
  • The investigation could lead to penalties for Chinese firms, including downgraded tender applications or exclusion from EU markets.
  • The probe is part of a broader EU strategy to address trade imbalances and assertive practices by China, including other investigations into subsidies and market distortions.