China Restricts Exports to 14 EU Entities Citing National Security

China has imposed an export ban on products with potential dual civilian and military uses, targeting 14 European Union companies. The Ministry of Commerce stated that the decision was made to "safeguard national security and national interests." This action follows closely on the heels of the EU's imposition of export restrictions against 51 new entities, including companies from China and Hong Kong, which the EU accused of supporting Russia's war efforts in Ukraine.

The export control list, effective from Friday, prohibits Chinese exporters from supplying dual-use items to the specified EU entities. A spokesperson for China's commerce ministry described the ban as a direct response to "egregious actions by the EU" taken the previous day. This retaliatory measure highlights the escalating trade tensions between China and the European bloc.

“

In order to safeguard national security and national interests… China has decided to place 14 EU entities including Lafert Group on its export control list.

Among the 14 entities placed on China's export control list are prominent companies such as Lafert Group, an Italian producer of electric motors, and Rheinmetall AG, a German arms manufacturer. Other listed companies include Dutch shipbuilding firm IHC, specializing in offshore heavy equipment, and Czech firm Tatra Trucks, known for producing military vehicles. The ban also extends to preventing overseas organizations and individuals from supplying dual-use items originating from China to these 14 European entities.

The Chinese commerce ministry's statement emphasized that the ban is a measure to protect national security and interests, directly linking it to the EU's earlier restrictive actions. This move underscores China's willingness to retaliate against perceived unfair or hostile trade practices from international bodies.

“

responding to egregious actions by the EU