On Wednesday, July 29th, 2026, the United States imposed sanctions on a group of mainland Chinese and Hong Kong shipping companies accused of operating vessels that transported Iranian oil to China. This move extends Washington’s economic campaign against Tehran alongside its naval blockade.

The US State Department designated eight companies for operating vessels that moved Iranian crude oil and petrochemical products to China and the United Arab Emirates as part of Iran’s sanctions-evading “shadow fleet.” According to the US Treasury Department, six of these vessels were specifically accused of carrying Iranian crude to China, transporting millions of barrels during 2026.

The sanctions freeze any assets belonging to the targeted companies within US jurisdiction and generally prohibit US individuals and businesses from engaging with them. Additionally, foreign financial institutions and other companies could face sanctions exposure if they continue transactions involving the designated firms.

State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott stated, “Today’s designations support the US Navy’s enforcement of a blockade on Iranian ports and coastline.”

The sanctions also targeted two Iranian companies accused of forcing commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz to purchase maritime insurance against risks, including seizures, which Washington alleges are created by Tehran itself.

Sources