Washington: The United States has imposed export restrictions on 70 companies from eight countries, including Pakistan, China, and the United Arab Emirates, citing national security concerns.
According to the U.S. government, the listed companies were involved in activities deemed contrary to American national security and foreign policy interests. The newly sanctioned firms include 19 from Pakistan, 42 from China, and four from the UAE, along with entities from Iran, France, Africa, Senegal, and the United Kingdom.
This is not the first time the U.S. has taken such action against Pakistani companies. In April 2024, the U.S. had imposed sanctions on three Chinese and one Belarusian company for allegedly assisting Pakistan's missile program.
Among the Pakistani companies now facing restrictions are Allied Business Concern Pvt Ltd, Ariston Trade Links, Britelight Engineering Company, Global Traders, Indentech International, Intralink Incorporated, Linkers Automation Pvt Ltd, and NA Enterprises.
Other affected firms include Auto Manufacturing, Potohar Industrial & Trading Concern, Proc Master, Professional Systems Pvt Ltd, Rachna Supplies Pvt Ltd, and Rustec Technologies.
In December 2021, the U.S. had also blacklisted 13 Pakistani companies for allegedly supporting Pakistan’s nuclear and missile programs. Similarly, in 2018, seven Pakistani engineering firms were placed under strict scrutiny for allegedly engaging in nuclear equipment trade that posed a potential threat to U.S. national security.
