In a bold response to US sanctions, lawmakers in China’s Xinjiang region have vowed to intensify support for local enterprises targeted by accusations of forced labor. This move underscores Beijing’s unwavering stance against what it sees as unfounded claims and economic coercion.
Xinjiang, China — The regional legislature of Xinjiang is stepping up to protect its businesses from the impact of US sanctions, which were imposed under the Uygur Forced Labour Prevention Act. The legislation, which became effective last year, aims to block imports from Xinjiang-linked companies accused of using forced labor, particularly in industries like cotton, textiles, and new energy.
On Monday, a resolution took effect in Xinjiang, demanding immediate action across all levels of the region to bolster sanctioned enterprises. This resolution, adopted on August 23, calls for creating a “positive social environment” to support these businesses, framing it as a matter of justice and responsibility for the entire region.
The Xinjiang legislature’s resolution denounces the US measures as “political manipulation and economic bullying under the guise of human rights.” The document emphasizes the need for judicial support to help affected companies seek compensation from the US, aligning with international law. It also urges local governments to establish leadership systems to address the challenges posed by these sanctions and to drive innovation and market expansion for the targeted businesses.
Xinjiang officials are pushing for legislative action to enact laws that support sanctioned enterprises. These laws would ensure fair market conditions and robust oversight of policy implementation, providing a lifeline for the region’s key industries, which have been severely impacted by the sanctions.
The resolution also calls on local deputies to act as advocates for these businesses, promoting their products both domestically and internationally. This is part of a broader strategy to counter the narrative of forced labor and present a more positive image of Xinjiang’s economic contributions.
The US sanctions have placed over 80 Chinese companies on the Department of Homeland Security’s “entity list,” with more than 30 added this year alone. These companies, many from Xinjiang’s core industries, are accused of being involved in forced labor programs targeting ethnic minorities like the Uygurs and Kazakhs. Beijing has consistently denied these allegations, claiming improved living standards and ethnic equality in the region.
In response, the Xinjiang legislature’s resolution not only rejects the forced labor accusations but also reaffirms the region’s commitment to resisting what it views as US interference in its domestic affairs. The document highlights ongoing efforts to improve Xinjiang’s international image and to challenge the legitimacy of the sanctions through legal and diplomatic channels.
As Xinjiang faces increasing scrutiny from the West, its leaders are doubling down on support for local industries under fire. The regional legislature’s resolution marks a significant escalation in China’s pushback against US sanctions, setting the stage for further confrontation on the global stage. The success of these efforts will likely hinge on the region’s ability to mobilize resources and foster resilience among its sanctioned enterprises.