The Chinese government has imposed sanctions on seven companies in response to recent U.S. military sales and aid to Taiwan, a self-governing island that China considers part of its territory. The sanctions were announced following the approval of the U.S. government's annual defense spending bill, which China criticized for containing 'multiple negative sections on China.'
China has long objected to American military assistance to Taiwan and typically imposes sanctions on related companies after such announcements. However, these sanctions have limited impact as U.S. defense companies do not sell arms or military goods to China, with the U.S. being the primary weapons supplier to Taiwan for its defense.
The seven companies facing sanctions are Insitu Inc., Hudson Technologies Co., Saronic Technologies, Inc., Raytheon Canada, Raytheon Australia, Aerkomm Inc., and Oceaneering International Inc. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that assets held by these companies in China will be frozen, and any engagement with them by organizations or individuals in China is prohibited.
Recently, U.S. President Joe Biden authorized significant military assistance to Taiwan, including defense material and services worth up to $571 million, along with $295 million in approved military sales. The U.S. defense bill, totaling $895 billion, emphasizes a more confrontational approach towards China and includes provisions for potential military support to Taiwan.
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang criticized the U.S. for exaggerating the threat posed by China to justify increased military spending, highlighting the U.S.'s status as the world's top military spender. The Foreign Ministry condemned the U.S. actions as violations of agreements on Taiwan, interference in China's domestic affairs, and threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, Taiwan reported that China had deployed numerous ships near its waters to simulate a blockade, a move deemed destabilizing and disruptive to peace, stability, and international shipping. China has not officially confirmed or commented on these reported military activities.
