China urges EU to honor commitment to market openness

China urged the European Union to honor its commitment to market openness and provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises, following the European Commission's decision to restrict Chinese companies from participating in public tenders for medical devices worth over 5 million euros (41.38 million yuan).

Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said the EU has long claimed to be one of the most open markets in the world, but in reality, it is increasingly leaning toward protectionism.

He criticized the bloc for frequently resorting to unilateral trade tools under the pretext of fair competition, while in fact engaging in unfair practices — calling it a typical case of double standards.

Guo emphasized that China remains committed to high-level opening-up, upholding the principles of a market economy and the rules of the World Trade Organization, adding that China advocates resolving trade disputes through dialogue and consultation.

He expressed hope that the EU will abide by WTO rules and work to advance the sound and stable development of China-EU economic and trade relations.

"China will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises," he added.