Chinese medical device makers push into Europe as anti-corruption squeeze bites at home

Chinese innovative medical device companies are increasing their efforts to enter the European market. This strategic shift is driven by domestic challenges, including anti-corruption policies and profit pressures. In the first five months of 2026, government-backed hospital purchases of medical devices in China decreased by approximately 12% year-on-year. This decline is partly attributed to a new anti-corruption probe targeting hospitals, which has impacted the revenue of major Chinese medical device manufacturers. Public hospitals, responsible for about 84% of patient visits in China, are the primary purchasers of medical equipment, making their reduced spending a significant factor.