China issued a warning to the United States on Monday, September 23, against implementing "discriminatory actions" towards its companies, in light of reports suggesting that Washington is considering a ban on vehicles utilizing Chinese and Russian technology.

According to Bloomberg and other news outlets, sources indicated that the U.S. is contemplating new regulations that would prohibit the use of hardware and software produced in China in American vehicles.

In response to these reports, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that China calls on the U.S. to honor market principles and to create an open, fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese firms.

"China stands against the U.S.'s expansion of the national security concept and the discriminatory measures directed at Chinese businesses and products," Lin stated.

He further asserted, "China will firmly protect its legitimate rights and interests."

If these regulations are enacted, they would represent a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China.

In May, the U.S. announced substantial tariff increases on Chinese imports, including electric vehicles and semiconductors.

These tariff hikes affected approximately $18 billion worth of Chinese goods, focusing on critical sectors such as electric vehicles, batteries, essential minerals, and medical products, according to the White House.

The tariff rate on electric vehicles (EVs) is scheduled to increase fourfold to 100 percent this year, while the tariff on semiconductors is expected to rise from 25 percent to 50 percent by next year.

These measures were finalized this month in anticipation of the presidential election in November, where both the Democratic and Republican parties aim to adopt a firm position against China amid escalating competition between the two nations.

The decision to raise tariffs on goods valued at $18 billion follows a review of the tariffs established during the administration of former President Donald Trump, which affected approximately $300 billion in imports from China.

In addition to the tariff increases, including those on solar cells, the U.S. Trade Representative's office has confirmed that a 50 percent duty on semiconductors—significantly higher than previous rates—will be implemented starting in 2025.