Beijing has placed seven entities in the European Union on its export control list, banning them from receiving “dual-use” items – products with potential military application – originating in China, according to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce issued on Friday.

The entities, including Belgium-based firearms manufacturer FN Herstal, are predominantly major European defense contractors, aerospace research institutes and satellite intelligence firms.

The move came after the bloc unveiled more trade and economic restrictions seen as targeting Chinese investment and companies earlier this year, including the EU Cybersecurity Act 2 and the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act.

The ministry said the measure was to “safeguard China’s national security and interests” and “fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation”, and was in accordance with the country’s laws and regulations on export control.

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