China to set up special group to enforce anti-sanctions law

Under sweeping legislation, the body will study options for dealing with foreign companies and individuals which implement Western bans

Measures will include denial of visas or expulsion as well as the seizing and freezing of assets within China

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Workers plant a cotton field in Xinjiang, where claims of human rights abuses have led to Western-imposed sanctions against China. Photo: AP

Published: 10:00pm, 11 Jun 2021Updated: 10:49pm, 11 Jun 2021

China will establish a leading group to coordinate and enforce anti-sanctions measures in response to Western pressure over human rights, technology and trade, under a law passed on Thursday by the National People’s Congress Standing Committee.

The anti-foreign sanctions law, which came into immediate effect, outlines sweeping retaliation against any individuals, their families and organisations responsible for imposing foreign sanctions against China.

Those on the list may face countermeasures including denying and revoking visas or expulsion, seizing and freezing assets within China, blocking or restricting transactions and cooperation with Chinese individuals and entities within China, as well as other unspecified “necessary measures”.

According to the legislation, a mechanism will be established for “overall planning and coordination” of anti-sanctions work. Relevant departments of the State Council will strengthen coordination and information sharing, determine and implement relevant countermeasures in accordance with their respective responsibilities and tasks.

Chinese experts involved in legislation consultation said the section referred to the setting up a leading group, with representatives from the foreign and commerce ministries, as well as the National Development and Reform Commission.

“An interdepartmental working mechanism is required to form a joint force for law enforcement,” said Tian Feilong, an associate professor at Beihang University’s law school. “The leading group will coordinate anti-foreign sanctions actions and integrate law enforcement resources.”

The decision by the relevant department of the State Council would be final, with no room for administrative reconsideration. A more specific implementation regulation would be issued by the State Council “soon”, Tian added.