The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has taken action. It announced an order invalidating the sanctions imposed by the United States on five Chinese companies involved in transactions of Iranian crude oil.

Specifically, the targeted companies are Hengli Petrochemical, Shandong Shouguang Luqing Petrochemical, Shandong Jincheng Petrochemical Group, Hebei Xinhai Chemical Group, and Shandong Shengxing Chemical. These companies were listed on the "Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List" based on U.S. Executive Orders 13902 and 13846, and had their assets frozen and transactions prohibited.

According to a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce, they have consistently opposed unilateral sanctions that lack UN approval or legal basis under international law. The current injunction is positioned as a concrete measure to "prevent the improper extraterritorial application of foreign laws."

Interestingly, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce emphasizes that this is a move to protect the legitimate rights and interests of domestic companies. While maintaining that it does not affect the fulfillment of international obligations, it also states that foreign companies' investment activities are legally protected.

Going forward, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce will continue to monitor the extraterritorial application of laws and measures by other countries. If similar situations are confirmed, they are prepared to respond in accordance with the law. This injunction will take effect immediately from the date of promulgation.