China imposes sanctions on six US companies

China has imposed sanctions on six American companies, heightening tensions between the two countries.

The move came amid discussions about a potential meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (September 25).

According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, three of the U.S. firms have been added to the "Unreliable Entity List," making it nearly impossible for them to conduct business with China.

The companies are accused of involvement in military-technical cooperation with Taiwan, which China claims undermines its sovereignty and security.

The sanctioned companies are: Sarnic Technologies (unmanned vehicle manufacturer), Arcom (satellite technology firm), Oceaniering International (subsea engineering company).

Additionally, three other companies have been added to China’s export control list, prohibiting them from receiving dual-use products (those with both military and civilian applications). These include: Huntington Ingalls Industries (military shipbuilder), Planet Management Group (engineering and facilities management), Global Dimensions (intelligence firm).

China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that these companies are jeopardizing national security and interests, further escalating the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China.