China imposes export restrictions on European defense entities over Taiwan arms sales
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
China has implemented restrictions on seven European entities in the defense sector, citing their involvement in alleged arms sales or "collusion" with Taiwan. The measures, effective immediately, are intended to safeguard national security and interests and fulfill international obligations like non-proliferation, according to the commerce ministry. The curbs prohibit exports of "dual-use items" to the named entities, which include Belgian guns manufacturer FN Herstal, German defense electronics firm Hensoldt, and the Czech Republic's national aerospace research and development center, VZLU Aerospace. The ministry stated that any ongoing related activities must cease, though applications for export could be submitted in truly necessary special circumstances. An unnamed commerce ministry spokesperson clarified that the measures target only a small number of EU entities involved in military-related activities, specifically those that participated in arms sales to Taiwan or engaged in collusion with Taiwan, assuring that "law-abiding and trustworthy EU entities have absolutely no cause for concern." Beijing has increased export controls in recent years, including against 20 Japanese entities in February due to political tensions over Taiwan, and last year's curbs on rare earth exports, which caused global supply concerns. The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China warned earlier this month that Beijing’s stringent export controls pose a "long-term business risk".
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