Tuesday, June 9, 2026

US Adds Alibaba, BYD, Baidu to List of Firms Linked to Chinese Military

US Adds Alibaba, BYD, Baidu to List of Firms Linked to Chinese Military

The United States has added several major Chinese companies, including e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, search engine operator Baidu, and electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, to its list of firms considered to have links to China's military.

The updated designation, announced by the Pentagon, increases the number of companies on the list and is expected to affect future business opportunities with the US government, particularly in the defence sector.

US officials said the companies were included because of concerns about their connections to China's military-civil fusion strategy, which seeks to integrate civilian technological development with military advancement.

China strongly criticised the move, describing it as unfair and discriminatory. Chinese officials argued that the targeted companies operate in accordance with international laws and should not be treated as security threats without evidence.

Alibaba and Baidu both rejected the designation, insisting they are commercial enterprises with no military affiliation. The companies indicated they would consider legal options to challenge their inclusion on the list.

The decision comes despite recent diplomatic efforts by the United States and China to improve relations following years of trade and technology disputes. Analysts say the move could create new tensions between the world's two largest economies.

The blacklist does not immediately impose sanctions, but companies on the list may face restrictions related to US defence contracts and increased scrutiny from American businesses and investors.

Industry observers note that the inclusion of some of China's most recognizable brands highlights Washington's growing concern about the role of advanced technology firms in China's long-term strategic and military development.

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