Published on 05/08/2026 - 15:27 GMT+2

China has introduced a range of economic steps against the United States. These include limits on drone exports and a prohibition on business dealings with six American companies.

The action responds to recent restrictions put in place by Washington.

Relations between the two largest economies remain tense ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's expected visit to the US in September.

This occurs even after indications of improving ties during his discussions with US President Donald Trump in Beijing in May.

China's Commerce Ministry noted that the penalties address recent US actions. These involve an FCC ban on imports of Chinese drones and a Department of Homeland Security decision to place 43 Chinese firms on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act entity list, blocking goods made with forced labor.

The steps "seriously breach the key agreements reached by the two leaders and harm China's valid rights and interests," the ministry stated in a release.

"China must respond with appropriate countermeasures."

Beijing indicated it proceeded with moderation and urged Washington to drop its actions and end its "mistaken behaviors."

It warned of additional penalties if the US introduces further restrictions against China.

Individual assessments for drone exports

Beijing now requires individual reviews for exports of unmanned aerial vehicles, their main parts and related technologies.

These items appear on a list of export-controlled dual-use goods that serve both civilian and military ends.

Six US entities face bans on trade or other activities with Chinese companies, including Applied DNA Sciences and the non-governmental group Human Rights in China.

China separately prohibited Compliance Testing LLC from operating in the country, charging it with assisting the FCC to damage "China's sovereignty and security," according to the Commerce Ministry.

The ministry added that it is examining the possible national security effects of imported printing software and office equipment, though it did not identify specific firms.

Updated rules on safety certification

China's State Administration for Market Regulation stated that US companies performing follow-up factory inspections for Chinese entities under CCC certification can no longer issue those certifications.

CCC certification aims to confirm that electronic products meet basic safety standards. Under the updated rule, US producers of certified electronics must engage auditors based outside the US or use other non-US designated bodies.

In December, the FCC banned imports of new Chinese drones, though it later adjusted the ban to permit some models.

Last week, the regulator also announced bans on imports of new foreign-made humanoid robots and power inverters, citing national security risks - a step that effectively targets China.