China announced export restrictions on eight Taiwan-based companies connected to the island’s military as Taiwan commenced its annual military exercises.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry added these enterprises, including major players in aerospace and shipbuilding, to its export control list, citing concerns over national and regional security. Among the companies affected are Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), a defense supplier; Jingwei Aerospace Technology Co., a drone manufacturer; and CSBC Corporation, Taiwan’s largest shipbuilding firm.
Effective immediately, the new regulations prohibit the shipment of “dual-use items”—goods that can serve both civilian and military applications—to the listed companies.
This move coincides with Taiwan’s start of its Han Kuang military drills, which simulate defenses against a possible Chinese invasion. This year’s exercises are set to be the largest and longest to date, lasting approximately 10 days, double the duration of last year’s drills.
China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. Beijing has labeled Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te as a separatist and refuses to engage in official communication with him.
A spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office defended the export controls as a necessary measure to protect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“This is also a clear warning to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatists,” said Chen Binhua. “Those enterprises, organizations, and individuals who act as accomplices to separatist forces and incite division will face strict legal consequences.”
While the United States and most countries do not formally recognize Taiwan as an independent nation, U.S. law requires it to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.
Also Read:
Germany summons China’s ambassador after a plane is lasered over Red Sea
Philippines Calls in China’s Ambassador Over Sanctions on Former Senator
