China Imposes Export Restrictions on Seven European Defense Entities Over Taiwan Links

China's commerce ministry stated on April 24, 2026, that it has added seven European entities to its export control list, effective immediately. The restrictions target entities involved in the defense sector due to their alleged participation in arms sales to Taiwan or collusion with Taiwan.

The ministry said the measures are intended to safeguard national security, protect interests, and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation. The restrictions prohibit exports of dual-use items to the named entities and ban transfers of such items originating in China by foreign organizations and individuals.

Any ongoing related activities must cease immediately, according to the ministry's statement. In special circumstances where exports are necessary, applications can be submitted to the commerce ministry.

The entities include Belgian guns manufacturer FN Herstal, German defense electronics firm Hensoldt, and the national aerospace research and development center in the Czech Republic, VZLU Aerospace. A commerce ministry spokesperson stated that the measures apply only to a small number of EU entities involved in military-related activities with Taiwan.

The spokesperson added that law-abiding and trustworthy EU entities have no cause for concern.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory. The country has increased export controls in recent years, affecting access to certain technologies and products in strategic areas. In February 2026, the commerce ministry imposed export controls on 20 Japanese entities amid tensions related to comments on Taiwan by Japan's prime minister.

In 2025, China implemented curbs on rare earth exports, which raised global concerns about supply chains and provided leverage in trade discussions with the United States. The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China reported earlier in April 2026 that stringent export controls, particularly on rare earths, pose long-term business risks.