[Frankfurt / Vilnius 9th Reuters]-Lithuanian government officials and industry groups have told Reuters that China has warned multinationals that they will be shut out of the Chinese market if they do not break their ties with Lithuania. There is.
The Chinese government downgraded diplomatic relations with Lithuania last month following the establishment of a de facto embassy in Lithuania, which bears the name “Taiwan.”
No comment has been taken from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
There is not much direct trade between Lithuania and China, but there are many companies in Lithuania that manufacture furniture, lasers, food, clothing, etc. for multinational companies, and those multinational companies sell their products to China.
Lithuanian Deputy Foreign Minister Admenas has sent a message to Reuters that “(China) will not allow multinational companies to sell or procure products in the Chinese market if they use parts made in Lithuania.” Pointed out.
“Some companies have canceled their contracts with Lithuanian suppliers,” he said. The specific company name was not disclosed.
A representative of the Lithuanian Confederation of Industries also pointed out that some multinational companies procuring goods from domestic suppliers are targeted by China. “It used to be a threat, but now it’s a reality,” he said, adding that the targeted multinationals are European companies and have transactions with many Lithuanian companies.
Lithuania is considering establishing a fund to protect domestic businesses from China’s retaliation, according to government officials.
Foreign Minister Landsbergis has asked the European Commission for support, saying that “a strong response is needed at the European Union (EU) level.” The Commission has stated that it is ready to counter all kinds of political pressures and coercive measures on its member states.
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