BEIJING — China announced on Wednesday sanctions against US companies that sell arms to the self-ruled island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory and threatening to annex by force.
Chinese state media made the announcement, citing the Foreign Ministry, but did not provide details about the companies involved. Taiwan is awaiting deliveries of F-16 fighter jets, Abrams tanks and a array of missiles from the USA
China has increased its threats to attack Taiwan, whose 2.3 million citizens overwhelmingly favor their current status of de facto independence. Despite their lack of formal diplomatic ties, the United States has long been a key supplier of arms and is legally bound to ensure the island can defend itself.
Along with buying weapons from the US, Taiwan has also revived its domestic arms industry. A fleet of submarines is under way, while compulsory military service for men has been extended to one year.
China has previously demanded American companies end cooperation with Taiwan’s armed forces, to no apparent effect.