NEW DELHI: China has strongly criticized the United States over newly imposed import restrictions on foreign-produced power inverters and advanced robotic devices, describing the measures as protectionist and warning that they could disrupt global trade and technology supply chains.

The Chinese government said the new U.S. restrictions undermine the principles of fair competition and free trade, adding that the measures could negatively affect international manufacturers, exporters, and businesses that depend on cross-border technology cooperation. Beijing urged Washington to reverse what it called discriminatory trade practices and uphold its commitments under international trade rules.

The U.S. restrictions are aimed at tightening scrutiny on imports of critical technologies, particularly power inverters used in renewable energy systems and advanced robotics, citing concerns related to national security and the resilience of domestic supply chains. The move is part of Washington's broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology in strategic sectors.

In response, China warned that such actions risk fragmenting global industrial and technology supply chains, increasing costs for businesses and consumers worldwide. Chinese officials stressed that unilateral trade barriers could hinder innovation, slow the global transition to clean energy, and create uncertainty for multinational companies operating across international markets.

The latest dispute adds to ongoing trade tensions between the world's two largest economies, which have already disagreed over tariffs, semiconductor exports, artificial intelligence technologies, and critical minerals. Analysts believe the new restrictions could trigger further retaliatory measures and complicate efforts to stabilize U.S.-China economic relations.