China denounces US sanctions targeting several tech giants

China has expressed strong opposition to the United States' decision to add several major Chinese companies to the Pentagon's list of companies deemed to support the Chinese military.

In a statement released Saturday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce expressed its "deep dissatisfaction" with the measure, arguing that it infringes upon the legitimate interests of the companies involved. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the decision, accusing Washington of politicizing economic and trade issues.

The companies targeted include several major technology and industrial groups, among them Alibaba, Baidu, and the automaker BYD. Inclusion on this list does not in itself constitute a direct sanction, but it can complicate trade relations with the United States and increase mistrust among international investors.

Washington asserts that these companies maintain ties with the Chinese military or contribute to the development of Beijing's defense capabilities. US authorities view this list as a tool to bolster national security in the face of China's growing technological and military power.

Beijing firmly rejects these accusations and believes the United States is using national security as a pretext to hinder the development of Chinese companies in international markets. Chinese authorities have called on Washington to cease what they describe as discriminatory practices and to create a fairer business environment.

This new controversy is part of a growing rivalry between the world's two largest economies, particularly in the strategic sectors of artificial intelligence, semiconductors, telecommunications and advanced technologies.