BEIJING – Tensions between China and the United States have escalated further. Chinese authorities announced new sanctions against several US individuals and defence companies. The move follows recent US arms sales to Taiwan, which Beijing strongly opposes.
China said the sanctions target multiple individuals and 20 US defence-related companies. Among them is Boeing’s St Louis division, which focuses on defence manufacturing. Other major firms include Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation and L3Harris Maritime Services.
Under the sanctions, any assets held in China by the listed companies will be frozen. Chinese organisations and citizens are also barred from doing business with them. These measures are intended to limit financial and commercial ties.
China also imposed travel bans on the sanctioned individuals. Those affected include the founder of defence technology firm Anduril Industries. Nine senior executives from the targeted companies are also included. They are now banned from entering China.
China has limited direct business with US defence contractors. However, the decision highlights broader economic risks. It contrasts with China’s long-standing relationship with Boeing’s civilian aircraft business.
The sanctions were announced days after Washington approved a major weapons package for Taiwan. The deal is valued at $11.1 billion. It is the largest arms sale ever approved for the self-governed island.
China’s foreign ministry described Taiwan as the “core of China’s core interests.” Officials warned that the issue represents a major red line in China-US relations. Beijing said it would respond firmly to any actions it considers provocative.
China urged the United States to stop what it called dangerous efforts to arm the island. It warned that continued military support would harm regional stability. Beijing called for respect for its position on sovereignty.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory. This claim is rejected by Taiwan’s government in Taipei. The United States maintains a long-standing policy toward Taiwan’s defence.
US law requires Washington to help Taiwan maintain self-defence capabilities. This policy has remained consistent across nine US administrations. It continues to be a key source of tension with Beijing.
The US State Department strongly criticized China’s sanctions. Officials said the measures unfairly target American companies. Washington argued that arms support helps preserve peace in the Taiwan Strait.
US officials also called on China to reduce military and economic pressure on Taiwan. They urged Beijing to engage in meaningful dialogue instead of confrontation.
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Meanwhile, Boeing is reportedly in talks to sell up to 500 civilian aircraft to Chinese airlines. Such a deal could mark progress in a strained aviation market. Trade tensions have delayed major orders in recent years.
The latest dispute shows how the Taiwan issue continues to shape China-US relations.
