China Sanctions Taiwanese Businessman and Lawmaker

China has imposed sanctions on Taiwanese businessman Robert Tsao and lawmaker Puma Shen, accusing them of promoting Taiwan's independence through their involvement with the Black Bear Academy. The Taiwan Affairs Office labeled the academy as a source of 'violent Taiwan independence elements,' alleging it incites separatism and poses a threat to cross-strait relations. This decision comes alongside renewed Chinese military drills near Taiwan, which Beijing views as necessary warnings against separatist activities. Tsao and Shen will face travel bans to China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and their associated enterprises will be restricted from operating in China. The sanctions reflect China's ongoing efforts to curb movements perceived as destabilizing to the region. Both individuals have not publicly commented on the sanctions.