Chinese ventilator makers desperate for parts as global demand for machines hits 1 million

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi appeals to Switzerland for components as medical supplies producers face ‘impossible task’

Under current conditions, China’s ventilator suppliers can meet only a fifth of global needs, industry officials warn

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A shortage of components is hampering China’s efforts to meet the global demand for medical equipment. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 7:00pm, 9 Apr 2020Updated: 11:32pm, 9 Apr 2020

China has asked Switzerland to provide more components for ventilators as domestic producers face an “impossible” task of expanding supply to meet global demand.

While demand for ventilators and other medical equipment has surged during the coronavirus pandemic, Chinese producers are experiencing shortages of component and running into red tape caused by different quality standards around the world.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi asked Switzerland to “significantly step up supplies” in a phone call with his Swiss counterpart Ignazio Cassis, Beijing said on Wednesday.

“Countries such as Switzerland are suppliers of important components for ventilators. We hope Switzerland can increase their supply substantially to help enterprises increase production, and alleviate the urgency of countries,” Wang said.

Cassis said he would work with China to increase production of ventilators, as well as medicines and vaccines, and ensure the stability of supply chains.

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