Pentagon Blacklists China’s Largest EV Battery Maker Tencent

The US Department of Defense has added dozens of Chinese firms to a blacklist due to alleged ties with China’s military. Among them are Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd (CATL), the world’s largest electric vehicle battery maker, and Tencent, a massive tech firm. The list also includes Autel Robotics and DJI, which have faced scrutiny over national security concerns.

The companies deny working with the Chinese military, but the designation is expected to have limited impact on their business. CATL claims it has never engaged in military-related activities and plans to engage with DoD to address the issue. Tencent says its inclusion on the list is a mistake and vows to resolve the issue with US officials.

The move comes amid escalating tensions between the US and China, with both sides restricting each other’s access to technology. The blacklist adds to the growing list of Chinese firms facing restrictions in the US.

Source: https://thehill.com/policy/defense/5071191-defense-department-chinese-firms-blacklist