Q: On April 24, 2026, MOFCOM released a Restricted Namelist. What is the rationale behind this decision?

A: In accordance with the Export Control Law of the People’s Republic of China, the Regulations on Export Control of Dual-Use Items of the People’s Republic of China, and other applicable laws and regulations, the Chinese side decided to add seven EU entities, including FN Herstal, to the Restricted Namelist. Export operators are prohibited from exporting dual-use items to the aforementioned entities. Furthermore, overseas organizations and individuals are prohibited from transferring or providing dual-use items originating from the People’s Republic of China to them. In addition, any relevant ongoing activities must be terminated immediately.

Prior to the announcement of these measures, the Chinese side had notified the EU side through the bilateral export control dialogue mechanism. I wish to emphasize that the Chinese side’s listing is strictly targeted at a small number of EU military-related entities which have either participated in arms sales to China’s Taiwan region or engaged in collusion with it. The relevant measures are solely directed at dual-use items and do not affect normal economic and trade exchanges between China and the EU. Law-abiding EU entities have absolutely no need for concern. As always, the Chinese government will work with other countries to firmly safeguard world peace and regional stability and jointly ensure the stability of global industrial and supply chains. (Released on April 24)