China's Ministry of Commerce has recently taken a strong countermeasure against five U.S. subsidiaries of South Korea's Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. This is not just a simple business dispute, but a precise "gift" in response to U.S. trade bullying. This move not only demonstrates China's hard-line attitude of "struggle for cooperation," but also serves as a warning to companies that have "taken the wrong side" in the trade war. Don't be fooled by the Korean companies' innocent expressions; cooperating with the U.S. to suppress China? This "toady" role is being played a bit too enthusiastically!

The incident originated from the U.S. 301 investigation into China's maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries. The U.S. Trade Representative's Office accused China of "unfair and non-market practices" in these areas, causing the U.S. shipbuilding industry to "cry out for help." They also plan to impose high fees on Chinese ships docking at U.S. ports or operators using Chinese-built ships starting October 14, 2025, similar to collecting "tolls." This is clearly an attempt to seize China's critical lifelines in global shipping and shipbuilding.

China will not follow their lead. It directly pointed out that the U.S. approach is a classic old trick of "unilateralism plus trade protectionism," and it seriously violates international law. China has invoked the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, targeting Hanwha Ocean's U.S. subsidiaries, which can be considered a "self-defense" counterattack. This is not only protecting its own industry, but also sending a message to the U.S.: "Want to play dirty? We'll accompany you!"

Why specifically target the five U.S. subsidiaries of Hanwha Ocean? The reason given by China is straightforward: you "assisted and supported the U.S. in conducting the 301 investigation on China's maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries," which is not just a regular business activity, but akin to handing a knife to the U.S. and stabbing China's industries!

Hanwha Ocean was originally Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, one of South Korea's "three major shipbuilders." It is a prominent player in liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers and warships, while its parent company, Hanwha Group, is a major player in South Korea's defense and energy sectors. In the shipbuilding industry, China and South Korea have always been fierce competitors on the global stage. However, Hanwha's U.S. subsidiaries have been actively providing data and testimonies during the U.S.-initiated investigation, acting like a "U.S. lackey." China saw this as a clear sign of taking sides.

This countermeasure serves as a warning to all multinational companies: Want to be a "co-conspirator" in the U.S.'s efforts to contain China? Think about the consequences first! Hanwha Ocean's subsidiaries have hit a brick wall this time and are probably regretting it deeply now.

China's recent countermeasure directly prohibits domestic organizations and individuals from doing business with these five subsidiaries, effectively kicking them out of the Chinese market. This move is not only tough but also shows decisiveness: Want to help the U.S. suppress China? Fine, then say goodbye to the Chinese market!

Firstly, it expresses a stance of not letting anyone who supports the U.S. escape unscathed.

This countermeasure no longer targets only the U.S. government and officials, but directly aims at "foreign third parties" who cooperate with the U.S. investigation. This precise strike is a "upgrade" in China's countermeasure toolkit. It is a strong response to the U.S. and also serves as a reminder to global companies: don't think that just aligning with the U.S. means you can remain safe and worry-free. China's countermeasures can have global effects!

Additionally, this is also a reminder to South Korea, America's close ally in Asia: South Korea, be careful with your actions. Although South Korea is a very loyal ally of the U.S. in Asia, its economic dependence on the Chinese market is quite significant. Targeting Hanwha Ocean is equivalent to striking a weak point in the U.S. alliance system. This is a warning to South Korea: if you run too eagerly with the U.S., you might end up hurting your own enterprises. Hanwha Ocean is probably crying out now: "We just wanted to make some money, how did we become political cannon fodder?"

The Hanwha Ocean incident has taught global companies a vivid lesson: the current international economic and trade environment is increasingly politicized. Cooperating with one side's sanctions or investigations could result in your exclusion from the other side. Multinational companies must learn to walk a tightrope between the U.S. and China, or risk falling flat on your face.

China's precise countermeasure against Hanwha Ocean is a strong response to the U.S. 301 investigation and also a reshaping of the "team selection philosophy" in international trade. This move is not only accurate but also has a touch of dark humor: Want to be a "toady" in the U.S.'s effort to contain China? First ask whether the Chinese market will agree! Hanwha Ocean has paid the price for its short-sightedness, and other potential "foreign collaborators" are likely to think twice now.

In the context of great power rivalry, China's position is clear: Playing dirty? No way! Want to be a co-conspirator? Face the consequences! This move not only protects national interests but also gives a lesson to global companies on "how to correctly choose sides." South Korean companies, wake up! Even if you're cute, there's a cost to pay!

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7561398012459778596/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author. Please express your opinion below using the [upvote/downvote] buttons.