China called for an end to US sanctions imposed on Chinese citizens and companies over alleged links to Iran.
Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesperson Huang Ling said at a press conference in Beijing on Thursday that unilateral sanctions not authorized by the United Nations Security Council and lacking a basis in international law were unacceptable.
Huang Ling said Washington continued to impose sanctions on Chinese companies and citizens despite Beijing’s objections, arguing that these measures constituted improper interference in normal economic and trade relations between countries.
China highlights energy security
Huang Ling said US sanctions were also disrupting global energy security and supply stability. The Chinese spokesperson called on the Washington administration to abandon the sanctions and lift the measures currently in place.
Huang Ling said China would continue to protect the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens and companies. The statement reflected Beijing’s objections to the impact of Iran-related sanctions on regional trade and energy flows.
Companies added to US sanctions lists
On May 8, 2026, the US Department of the Treasury added five companies to its sanctions list. They included China-based Youshita Shanghai and Hitex Insulation, as well as Hong Kong-based Hesen Industry and Mostad Limited.
The companies were accused of facilitating the purchase of weapons for Iran and supplying weapons systems to Iran. On the same day, the US Department of State imposed sanctions on four companies, including the Chinese satellite companies Chang Guang Satellite Technology, The Earth AI and Mizar Vision.
The companies were accused of providing satellite imagery to Iran for use in attacks against US forces in the Middle East.
On May 11, the US Department of the Treasury added nine companies and three individuals to its sanctions list. The entities, including Hong Kong Blue Ocean, Hong Kong Sanmu, Jiandi H. K. and Max Honor International Trade, were accused of facilitating the sale to China of oil belonging to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
On July 29, the US Department of State announced sanctions on eight maritime transportation companies over allegations that they transported Iranian oil and petrochemical products to China.
On July 30, the US Department of the Treasury added the China-based companies Shanghai Wings International Logistics and Shanghai Elite International Travel, as well as the companies’ executive Tang Xin, to its sanctions list.
Tang Xin and the companies were accused of facilitating the sale of airline tickets for Iran-based Mahan Air and shipping electronic products from China to Iran.
