China has fired back at the European Union over a reported plan to block Chinese medical device firms from bidding on major public contracts. The EU’s proposed ban, targeting tenders over €5 million ($5.7M) for five years, has sparked a fierce response from Beijing. 🏥🌍
‘Discriminatory’ Move Sparks Outcry
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce called the EU’s decision under its International Procurement Instrument a “protectionist practice” that undermines fair competition. “This unilateral measure distorts the market and creates new trade barriers,” they said, urging the EU to “correct its wrong approach.”
Global Trade Tensions Heat Up
With the world economy already strained by inflation and supply chain woes, China warned that such moves “harm the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises.” The spokesperson stressed that major economies must uphold WTO rules and avoid “discrimination” – a clear nod to growing East-West trade friction. 💥
What’s Next?
China says it will “closely monitor” the EU’s actions and take “necessary measures” to protect its companies. Will this escalate into a full-blown trade dispute? Stay tuned. 🔍
