China's MOFCOM responds to U.S. enactment of 2026 Graham Sanctions on Russia and Iran
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On September 19, China's Ministry of Commerce spokesperson responded to the U.S. enactment of the 2026 Graham Sanctions on Russia and Iran Act, signed into law on September 18 Eastern Time. The act strengthens sanctions against Russia, extends certain Iran-related sanctions, and authorizes secondary tariffs of up to 100% on third countries importing Russian oil or natural gas. Commentators suggest China may be targeted. The spokesperson stated China opposes unilateral sanctions lacking UN authorization and secondary sanctions imposed on other countries. China conducts normal economic cooperation on equality and mutual benefit, not targeting third parties or subject to interference. China will monitor U.S. actions and reserves the right to take necessary measures to safeguard sovereignty, development interests, and Chinese enterprises' rights. China hopes the U.S. will maintain stable economic relations through dialogue and contribute to global trade order and supply chain security.
Source report
Date: September 19 Source: Cailian Press
The spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce has issued a response to media inquiries regarding the enactment of the 2026 Graham Sanctions on Russia and Iran Act by the United States.
Reporter's Question
On September 18 (Eastern Time), the United States signed into law the 2026 Graham Sanctions on Russia and Iran Act. The legislation:
- Comprehensively strengthens sanctions against Russia
- Extends certain sanctions related to Iran
- Explicitly authorizes the imposition of so-called “secondary tariffs” of up to 100% on third countries that import Russian oil or natural gas
Some commentators have suggested that China may be among the targets of these U.S. tariffs. What is China’s comment on this matter?
Ministry of Commerce Spokesperson's Response
We have taken note of the relevant developments. China has consistently opposed:
- Unilateral sanctions lacking authorization from the United Nations and a basis in international law
- So-called secondary sanctions imposed on other countries under the pretext of their dealings with third parties
China has always conducted normal economic and trade cooperation with countries around the world on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. Such cooperation neither targets third parties nor is subject to interference or coercion by them.
We will continue to closely monitor subsequent actions by the United States and reserve the right to take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard:
- China’s national sovereignty
- China’s development interests
- The legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises
We hope that the United States will meet China halfway, maintain stability in economic and trade relations through dialogue and consultation, and make more contributions to preserving the global trading order and ensuring the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains.
Source
财联社Eastern
Part of this Story
China opposes U.S. sanctions on Russia and Iran, warns of countermeasures