China responds to EU ban with import restrictions of medical equipment

China has introduced immediate import restrictions on medical devices from the European Union following the EU's own restrictions on Chinese firms. The Ministry of Finance's notice specifies that EU businesses will be excluded from procurement projects exceeding 45 million yuan ($6.28 million). This includes various medical devices but excludes EU-funded entities operating in China.

The restrictions aim to protect Chinese companies' interests after the EU's measures were seen as creating "new protectionist barriers." China's Ministry of Commerce expressed willingness to resolve issues through dialogue, emphasizing that cooperation is crucial for fair competition and trade.