Beijing Targets EU Defense Industry in Retaliation for Sanctions on Chinese Firms

Beijing has imposed strict restrictions on a number of European corporations, a move that could delay weapons deliveries and increase the cost of military assistance to Ukraine. China Responds to EU Sanctions with Mirror Measures Against European Defense Companies China's Ministry of Commerce has placed 14 European companies on its export control list in response to the European Union's 21st package of anti-Russian sanctions, under which Brussels included 14 companies from mainland China and Hong Kong. According to the EU, these firms allegedly supplied dual-use components to Russia that were used in weapons production. China's retaliatory measures directly target Europe's defense, semiconductor, aerospace, and high-tech optoelectronics sectors. Among the affected companies are Germany's Rheinmetall AG, Poland's Vigo Photonics SA, the Czech Republic's Tatra Trucks, and Italy's Lafert Group.