(File photo: VCG)

"China has repeatedly stressed that the concept of national security should not be abused and used as a tool for trade protectionism. We hope that the relevant country respects market rules and creates a fair, transparent and predictable business environment for enterprises, including Chinese enterprises," Gao Feng, spokesperson for the China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), said at a regular media briefing on Thursday.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring US companies from using telecommunications equipment made by Chinese company Huawei and its 70 subsidiaries and announced a so-called "national emergency.”

"China has always demanded that Chinese enterprises earnestly and strictly implement relevant laws and regulations on export controls, fulfill their international obligations on export controls and conduct business in compliance with laws and policies of relevant countries in overseas operations. We resolutely oppose any country's unilateral sanctions against Chinese entities in accordance with its own domestic laws expanding the concept of national security, and the abuse of export control measures," Gao said.

“We urge the US side to stop its erroneous practices, create conditions for normal trade and cooperation between enterprises of the two countries and avoid further impact on China-US economic and trade relations. China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises,” Gao said.