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

Chinese medical device innovators are accelerating their expansion into the European market, driven by a dual pressure of domestic anti-corruption policies and squeezed profit margins. This strategic pivot occurs amidst rising global trade protectionism, signaling a determined push for international growth.

In China, government-backed hospital purchases of medical devices saw a year-on-year decline of about 12% in the first five months of 2026. This downturn is partly attributed to a new anti-corruption probe targeting hospitals, which has consequently weighed on the revenues of major Chinese medical device manufacturers during the first half of the year. Public hospitals, which handle approximately 84% of all patient visits in China, represent the primary buyers of medical equipment, making this sector crucial for domestic manufacturers.

Among the companies actively pursuing European opportunities is Jenscare Scientific, a Ningbo-based manufacturer specializing in heart medical devices. The company recently achieved a significant milestone as its LuX-Valve Plus device secured CE certification under the European Union's updated Medical Device Regulation. This certification clears the device for sale throughout the region.

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a new anti-corruption probe into hospitals

The LuX-Valve Plus is designed to replace a damaged tricuspid valve, one of the four valves in the human heart. Its innovative approach allows for replacement through a vein, avoiding the need for open-chest surgery. This device is noted as the second of its kind globally to receive such approval, underscoring Jenscare Scientific's technological advancements and its strategic importance in the international market.

Jenscare Scientific described the EU approval as a "milestone" in its international strategy, highlighting the company's commitment to global market penetration. This move signifies a broader trend among Chinese medical device firms seeking to diversify their markets and mitigate the impact of domestic regulatory and economic pressures.

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milestone