China’s decision to ignore recent U.S. sanctions on its oil industry shows its willingness to use a legal toolkit compiled since 2020.
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao speaks during a press conference on the sideline of the National People's Congress in Beijing, China, March 6, 2026. Credit: Vincent Thian via AP Images
Last month, the United States placed sanctions on a Chinese oil refinery and dozens of ships involved in purchasing Iranian oil, a move designed to cut a financial lifeline for a vital Iranian industry.
In response, Beijing simply directed its companies to ignore the sanctions and carry on.
The incident marked the Chinese government’s first use of a 2021 law known as the Blocking Rule, intended to counter what it sees as unjustified sanctions on Chinese entities. It is one of
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