WASHINGTON – The US expanded a ban on imports from China’s Xinjiang region, placing two more companies on its so-called entity list, the first additions since a law targeting forced labour in the area took effect a year ago.
That widens the list to 22 companies, including solar material manufacturers Xinjiang Daqo New Energy and Hoshine Silicon Industry , as well as the state-affiliated Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. The move is certain to anger China, just as the the US seeks to mend deteriorating ties. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is said to be planning an official trip to China in the coming weeks, possibly including a meeting with President Xi Jinping.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to Bloomberg requests for comments sent outside normal business hours.