China Announces Retaliatory Sanctions Against US

China said it imposed sanctions on U.S. government officials, lawmakers and nongovernmental organizations in retaliation for the U.S. designating 14 members of China’s National People’s Congress Standing Committee (see 2012070024). China’s Foreign Ministry did not specify but said sanctions include “U.S. officials of [the] executive branch” and “people of Congress.” The sanctions target those “who act egregiously and bear major responsibilities on Hong Kong-related issues and their immediate family members,” the spokesperson said Dec. 10. “As to who will be covered, I'm sure those who fall under this category know very well.” China also revoked “visa exemption treatment” for U.S. diplomatic passport holders temporarily visiting Hong Kong and Macau. The White House did not comment.