China Accuses US of ‘Power Abuse’ After Pentagon Expands Blacklist of Chinese Firms

The criticism came days after the US Department of Defense updated its "Chinese Military Companies" list on June 8, 2026, a move that included some of China's best-known corporations such as Alibaba, Baidu, BYD, NIO, Trina Solar, JA Solar, and WuXi AppTec, according to Reuters.

China's Ministry of Commerce said it was "strongly dissatisfied" with the decision and urged Washington to immediately stop what it described as the politicization of economic and trade issues.

"The United States has repeatedly overstretched the concept of national security and used state power to suppress Chinese enterprises," the ministry said in a statement issued on June 13.

According to Reuters, Chinese officials argued that the latest measures undermine recent efforts by both countries to stabilize bilateral relations amid ongoing disputes over technology exports, investment restrictions, and national security concerns.

Timeline of Key Events

June 8, 2026
The Pentagon expanded its list of designated Chinese military companies, adding several major corporations.

June 11, 2026
Biotechnology company WuXi AppTec filed a legal challenge in the United States seeking removal from the list.

June 13, 2026
China formally condemned the move, accusing Washington of "power abuse" and demanding the blacklist be withdrawn.

Which Companies Were Added to the List?

The US Department of Defense recently updated its list of companies identified as "Chinese military companies," adding several prominent firms from key sectors of China's economy.

Among the companies reportedly added were technology giant Alibaba, internet search leader Baidu, electric vehicle manufacturers BYD and NIO, solar energy producers Trina Solar and JA Solar, and biotechnology company WuXi AppTec.

Although inclusion on the list does not automatically trigger sanctions, it can create significant business challenges. Companies named on the list may face increased scrutiny from investors, business partners, and government agencies.

The designation can also limit future opportunities involving US government contracts and procurement.

Why the US Says the Blacklist Is Necessary

US officials argue that China's military modernization strategy increasingly relies on cooperation between civilian businesses and defense-related institutions.

Washington has frequently raised concerns about what it describes as China's "military-civil fusion" strategy, which it says allows advanced commercial technologies to support military development.

American policymakers have expressed particular concern over sectors such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, semiconductors, biotechnology, and telecommunications.

According to US officials, the updated list is intended to help American businesses and investors better understand potential security risks associated with certain Chinese firms.

Growing Pressure on US-China Relations

Trade and Technology Rivalry Continues

The latest dispute comes despite recent efforts by both governments to reduce tensions and maintain economic dialogue.

Relations between Washington and Beijing have faced repeated challenges in recent years, including disagreements over trade, export controls, advanced technology, Taiwan, cybersecurity, and foreign investment restrictions.

Analysts say the blacklist expansion highlights how national security concerns remain deeply intertwined with economic competition.

"Even when both sides seek stability, strategic distrust remains high," said one Asia-Pacific policy analyst. "Measures involving technology and security are likely to remain flashpoints."

Chinese Companies Push Back

Several companies named on the Pentagon's list have rejected allegations of military ties.

Some firms have argued that their operations are purely commercial and unrelated to defense activities.

Biotechnology company WuXi AppTec has already launched legal action in the United States, challenging its inclusion and seeking removal from the list.

The company maintains that it has no connection to China's military and says the designation could damage its business reputation and operations.

What Happens Next?

While the Pentagon's list does not immediately impose sanctions, experts say the long-term impact could be significant.

The designations may discourage investment, increase regulatory scrutiny, and influence future business decisions involving Chinese firms operating globally.

China has signaled that it may take steps to protect affected companies, though officials have not announced specific countermeasures.

The dispute is likely to remain a key issue in broader US-China relations as both countries continue competing for leadership in critical technologies and global markets.

FAQ

Why is China accusing the US of power abuse?

China argues that the United States is using national security concerns as a justification to unfairly target Chinese companies and limit their global growth.

What is the Pentagon blacklist?

The Pentagon's "Chinese military companies" list identifies firms that US officials believe have connections to China's military or defense-related activities.

Are the listed companies sanctioned?

No. Inclusion on the list does not automatically impose sanctions, but it can create restrictions and reputational challenges.

Which Chinese companies were added?

Reports indicate that Alibaba, Baidu, BYD, NIO, Trina Solar, JA Solar, and WuXi AppTec were among the companies added.

How could this affect US-China relations?

The move could increase tensions between Washington and Beijing, particularly in areas involving technology, trade, investment, and national security.