China has issued new sanctions on five U.S.-based arms manufacturers over sales of weapons to Taiwan, which it considers a renegade province.
According to an AP News report, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement Sunday that it has barred organizations and individuals in China from doing business with AeroVironment, Alliant Techsystems Operation, BAE Systems Land and Armament, Data Link Solutions and Viasat.
It is unclear how the action will affect the five companies. The American defense contractors do not sell to China.
“The Chinese government remains unwavering in our resolve to safeguard national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and citizens,” the ministry said.
In December, the U.S. government approved a $300 million sale of equipment to Taiwan in support of its tactical information systems and ensure that the Taiwanese military is capable of countering current and future threats.
The State Department also signed off on a $500 million sale of military systems and components, including equipment for advanced F-16 fighter jets, to Taiwan in August.
The sanctions come just days before Taiwan holds a presidential election.
