US Adds BYD, Alibaba and Baidu to Military Linked List Raising Tensions With China
The United States has expanded its list of alleged Chinese military linked companies adding major names like BYD Alibaba Baidu and Unitree sparking strong denials and fresh concerns over rising tech and trade tensions
Growing tensions between the United States and China have taken another sharp turn after the US Department of Defense updated its list of companies it associates with China’s military ecosystem. The latest update includes some of the most influential names in global technology and manufacturing such as Alibaba, BYD, Baidu and robotics firm Unitree, triggering immediate controversy and strong responses from the companies involved.
The updated list, released earlier this week, is part of a framework first introduced in 2021 under a directive from the US Congress. The purpose of this classification is to identify companies that the Pentagon believes may have ties to China’s defense or military development structure. While inclusion in the list does not impose direct sanctions, it can restrict access to US defense contracts and may lead to further limitations in the future.
Officials in the US defense establishment argue that China’s military modernization strategy often blends civilian and commercial technology sectors. According to this view, some companies may unknowingly or indirectly contribute to defense related advancements through partnerships, data systems, or government linked industrial programs. This approach has led to increased scrutiny of Chinese tech giants over the past few years.
Among the most notable additions this time is electric vehicle giant BYD, one of the fastest growing automobile manufacturers in the world. Alongside it, Alibaba and Baidu have also been included, with the US side pointing to their reported connections with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. This ministry plays a central role in shaping the country’s industrial and technological development strategy.
The reaction from the companies has been swift and firm. Alibaba has reportedly rejected the allegations, stating that it has no involvement in any military related activities or civil military integration programs. Baidu has also dismissed the classification, calling the claims inaccurate and not reflective of its business operations. Both companies maintain that they operate as commercial technology enterprises focused on global innovation and services.
This year’s list has grown significantly, now covering around 188 Chinese entities compared to roughly 130 in the previous update. Several well known firms, including drone manufacturer DJI, were already part of earlier versions. While being listed does not immediately block companies from operating in the United States, it often affects investor confidence, global partnerships and long term expansion plans.
Robotics company Unitree has also been added to the list, drawing attention due to its widely publicized humanoid and industrial robots that have appeared in public events and media demonstrations. US authorities claim the company may have benefited from certain state supported programs in China, which contributed to its inclusion in the updated classification.
As global competition in artificial intelligence, robotics and electric vehicles continues to intensify, such decisions reflect the growing complexity of technology and security concerns between the world’s two largest economies. The latest move is likely to further deepen the strategic divide while adding pressure on already strained trade relations.
