Commerce Ministry responds to India's app ban

The Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday it is firmly opposed to the Indian government's decision to ban 118 Chinese apps, and has asked India to correct its wrong actions.

"The Indian government are abusing the concept of 'national security', and it has adopted discriminatory and restrictive measures against Chinese enterprises, which violated World Trade Organization rules," ministry spokesman Gao Feng said at a news conference.

"The Chinese government always requires all Chinese companies overseas to abide by international rules and operate in accordance with laws and regulations," Gao added. "The decision will not only harm the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese investors, but also the interests of Indian customers as well as the investment environment in India."

The ministry voiced serious concern about the move, and urged the Indian government to reverse its wrong decision.

"China-India cooperation in trade and economy are mutually beneficial. It is hoped India and China would jointly maintain their hard-won cooperation and development and create an open, fair and just business environment for international investors and service providers, including Chinese companies," Gao said.

Gao made the remarks after the Indian government through its Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology blocked 118 Chinese apps it said were "engaged in activities which are prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of state and public order".

The Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps in June, and another ban was imposed in July on 47 more Chinese apps.