8 Taiwan entities added to export control list

The Chinese mainland added eight Taiwan entities, including military equipment suppliers, to its export control list on Wednesday in a move it said was aimed at warning separatist forces against repeated provocations.

The Ministry of Commerce said the companies, including "defense "supplier Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation, had "deliberately cooperated with 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces". Other companies added to the list include GEOSAT Aerospace &Technology Inc, the Chung-Shan Institute of Science & Technology and Jong Shyn Shipbuilding Co.

The decision was made to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and was in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, the ministry said.

The ban prohibits the export of dual-use items — goods, software, or technology that can be used for both civilian and military purposes — to the eight companies. The ministry stressed that exporters will not be allowed to violate the control measures.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, voiced strong support for the decision, calling it a stern warning to the "repeated provocations" by "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

Since Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party took office as the island's leader, he has "stubbornly adhered" to a "pro-independence" stance, sought foreign support and attempted to pursue "independence" through force, Chen said. He accused some Taiwan entities of actively participating in these actions.

"'Taiwan independence' will lead to a dead end, and aiding separatism is a wicked path," Chen said, adding that any company, group or individual participating in acts to split the country will be "seriously punished".