The move is being interpreted as retaliation for the expected visit of U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

“We learned of the import suspensions on Monday, and are still working to determine how many companies have been affected,” COA said in a press release.

“The blacklisted companies include producers of tea leaves, dried fruits, honey, cocoa beans, and vegetables, as well as catches from around 700 fishing vessels,” the agency stated.

The agency also noted that the official reason for the suspension appears to be related to companies' compliance with a new customs registration system that Chinese authorities introduced in April of last year. (ILKHA)