Beijing, 2 January 2025 (dpa/MIA) - China has imposed export controls on dozens of US defence companies, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced on Thursday.

The delivery of goods that can be used for both civilian and military purposes is now prohibited, it reported, saying the measure is necessary to protect China's national interests and security, as well as international obligations.

The export restrictions apply to a total of 28 US companies, including several departments of Lockheed Martin, Raytheon and General Dynamics, the ministry said.

The Ministry of Commerce also placed a large number of these companies on its list of "unreliable companies," according to a second announcement on Thursday.

As a result, the companies will no longer be able to invest in China, and their high-ranking managers will not be allowed to enter the country.

China has repeatedly taken measures against US arms manufacturers in the past in response to US arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing considers Taiwan part of China, even though an independent government has been in power on the island republic for decades.

MIA file photo