Photo: Reuters
On 14 January, China imposed sanctions on a number of US defence companies, accusing them of involvement in arms sales to Taiwan. The decision was the second such move by Beijing in the last few days and is part of its efforts to “protect national sovereignty, security and interests,” according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.
Sanctions restrictions were imposed on such companies:
- Inter-Coastal Electronics
- System Studies & Simulation
- IronMountain Solutions
- Applied Technologies Group
- Axient
- Anduril Industries
- Maritime Tactical Systems
In addition, several other companies have been added to date, including:
- Pacific Rim Defence
- AEVEX Aerospace
- LKD Aerospace
- Summit Technologies
According to the Chinese authorities, these companies were allegedly involved in arms sales to Taiwan, which caused a sharp reaction from Beijing. As part of the sanctions, these companies are prohibited from conducting import and export activities with China and investing in the country. In addition, the management of these companies is banned from entering China, and the stay or residence of senior executives in the country has been cancelled.
The move is part of China’s broader efforts to increase pressure on the United States over Taiwan and other security issues that are causing tensions between the two countries.
