Chinese Officials Accuse US of Undermining Fair Competition Through Espionage

The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China issued a strong rebuke to the United States on September 12, after a senior CIA figure referenced spying activities aimed at Chinese interests. Chinese authorities demanded that Washington immediately halt all espionage directed at its sovereign territory, security, and development objectives.

Chinese officials reiterated that the state has both the determination and sufficient resources to enforce its espionage‑prevention statutes rigorously. Any breach of these laws will be met with harsh penalties, ensuring protection for Chinese enterprises.

According to the ministry, U.S. actions dilute the integrity of fair competition. While competition is a natural aspect of business, the United States is allegedly overstating its national‑security narrative, confusing legitimate market rivalry with security threats, a stance described as a relic of Cold‑War mentality.

The interference of American intelligence in economic competition, the Chinese side noted, harms the commercial expectations of firms worldwide and weakens the global market’s fairness. China expressed serious concern and a firm objection to such practices.