China retaliates against US firms with fresh export restrictions

Beijing has placed 10 U.S. companies, including rare earth producers MP Materials and USA Rare Earth, on its export control list. The move serves as a direct response to Washington’s recent decision to label several Chinese corporations, such as Alibaba and Baidu, as entities supporting the Chinese military.

Editorial·June 22, 2026·reads: 746

China retaliates against US firms with fresh export restrictions

The Chinese Commerce Ministry stated these measures are necessary to safeguard national security and fulfill international non-proliferation obligations. Under the new mandate, Chinese exporters are prohibited from selling dual-use items to the listed firms, which also include the motor manufacturer Aveox. Existing export activities with these entities must cease immediately.

Beyond these specific controls, China’s Finance Ministry has imposed broader restrictions on 46 additional American companies. While Chinese buyers are now barred from purchasing products from these manufacturers, the order provides a carve-out for U.S.-funded enterprises currently operating within China. This escalation follows the U.S. government’s recent move to blacklist Chinese tech and automotive giants, including BYD and NIO, citing their alleged links to Beijing's military apparatus.