The US government blacklisted Uniview on the grounds that it was involved in “human rights violations
Zhejiang Uniview Technologies, a Chinese video surveillance systems manufacturer, has urged the US government to reassess its decision to add the company to the Entity List, a trade blacklist. The move, announced by the US Department of Commerce, highlights the intensifying geopolitical tensions between the United States and China.
The US government blacklisted Uniview on the grounds that it was involved in “human rights violations,” including the use of high-tech surveillance targeting ethnic and religious minority groups, such as the Uygurs. This was part of a broader package of sanctions against Chinese companies accused of enabling such actions.
In response, Uniview denied the allegations, calling the decision “groundless.” The company further stated that it had not been informed of any investigation by US authorities. “We urge the US government to re-examine this decision,” Uniview said in a statement.
Uniview’s blacklisting followed a similar action against Beijing Zhongdun Security Technology Group, a Chinese security company linked to China’s Ministry of Public Security. As a result, US suppliers must now obtain a licence from the Bureau of Industry and Security before exporting products to these firms. However, the review process typically carries a “presumption of denial,” meaning approval for exports is highly unlikely.
The sanctions are the latest escalation in the ongoing trade conflict between Washington and Beijing, which has already seen a series of measures, including the US blacklisting 140 Chinese semiconductor companies earlier this month. The US has also imposed new export restrictions on key chipmaking equipment and software essential for semiconductor development.
Despite the sanctions, Uniview downplayed their impact, stating that the US action would have “no major impact” on its operations and that it would ensure a stable supply to its global clients.
