EU tightens procurement rules for Chinese medtech firms

The EU is moving to ban Chinese companies from bidding on medical device tenders over €5m, citing a lack of reciprocal market access in China. This comes after a formal investigation revealed China’s procurement practices—particularly under its 'Made in China 2025' strategy—disproportionately favour domestic manufacturers and force unsustainable pricing models on foreign bidders.

This five-year restriction marks the first major use of the EU’s International Procurement Instrument, signalling a tougher stance on trade imbalances in strategic sectors. For procurement leaders, it’s a wake-up call: global sourcing strategies must now contend with shifting trade policies, rising protectionism, and politicised supply chains.

Read the full article to understand what this means for your supply network and risk exposure.