US to condemn China over alleged economic espionage: report

The Trump administration is reportedly set to condemn China this week over economic espionage and hacking campaigns, a move that would likely increase tensions between the two countries amid a trade war truce.

The Washington Post reported Tuesday that multiple government agencies are expected to call out China over what the U.S. says is a pattern of behavior that includes attempts to steal trade secrets and technology, as well as government information. The administration is reportedly planning to declassify some intelligence documenting those efforts.

{mosads}The news outlet reported that the Justice Department will announce the indictments of hackers tied to Chinese intelligence agencies who are allegedly involved in campaigns that target U.S. networks. Some of those responsible for the hacks are expected to face sanctions, the Post reported.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The reported measures come as the U.S. and China attempt to reach an agreement to end a trade war. The two economic superpowers have slapped billions in tariffs on each other’s goods in recent months.

President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met earlier this month in Argentina, where the two leaders agreed not to impose further tariffs for 90 days amid ongoing negotiations.

Trump initially touted the results of the meeting as a major breakthrough but later warned on Twitter that he is “a Tariff Man” and would not hesitate to implement additional duties if he thought it was necessary.

The Trump administration has taken a hard line against other Chinese activities in recent months, alleging intellectual property theft and attempts to influence U.S. elections. 

Earlier this month, Canadian authorities arrested Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecom giant Huawei Technologies, at the request of the U.S., which alleged that the company violated U.S. trade sanctions against Iran.

Her arrest roiled financial markets, with many worried that it lowered the prospects of a long-term trade resolution between the two countries.

China has demanded her release, calling her detention a possible human rights violation.