Q: On September 18, EST, the United States signed the “Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026” into law. The act comprehensively tightens sanctions on Russia, extends existing sanctions on Iran, and explicitly authorizes so-called “secondary tariffs” of up to 100% on third countries that import Russian oil or natural gas. Some commentators believe that China will be among the targets of the above-mentioned U.S. tariffs. Is there any comment on this?

A: We have noted the relevant developments. China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that lack UN mandate and have no basis in international law, as well as the imposition of so-called secondary sanction measures on other countries under the pretext of their dealings with a third party. China engages in normal economic and trade cooperation with other countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. Such cooperation does not target any third party and shall be free from disruption or coercion from any third party.

We will continue to closely follow the subsequent steps of the United States and reserve the right to take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard China’s national sovereignty and development interests as well as the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies. We hope the United States will work with China in the same direction, maintain the stability of economic and trade relations through dialogue and consultation, and contribute more to upholding the world trade order and ensuring the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. (Released on September 19)