By Canadian Press

Canada facing ‘major’ medical gear shortage as 68 countries restrict exports

Apr 2, 2020 | 12:30 PM

Scores of countries have moved to restrict the export of face masks, gloves and other medical supplies critical for front-line workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving Canada and others scrambling to source products that now have higher price tags.

Simon Evenett, a professor of international trade at Switzerland’s University of St. Gallen, says 68 countries have curbed exports of medicine or personal protective equipment — also known as PPE. He calls the move “inhumane” and a potential “death sentence” for some of the world’s most vulnerable patients.

On Tuesday, China responded to complaints from Europe about ineffective coronavirus test kits by tightening standards around certification of medical goods for export.

The decision aims to clamp down on defective products, but could have the effect of slashing supply from a country that produces half of the world’s PPE.

Omar Allam, who heads an Ottawa-based global trade consultancy, says the crackdown seeks to bolster China’s reputation, but effectively severs Canadian wholesalers from Chinese manufacturers that have a solid track record.

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Officials across the country this week warned that equipment shortfalls are placing health-care workers and vulnerable Canadians at growing risk of exposure to the virus.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 2, 2020.

The Canadian Press