Trump ends Hong Kong special status; China threatens retaliation

US President Donald Trump said he had signed an order ending preferential economic treatment for Hong Kong, after China imposed a controversial security law in the territory.

The move was condemned by Beijing, which promised retaliation.

“Today I signed legislation, and an executive order to hold China accountable for its aggressive actions against the people of Hong Kong,” Trump said. “Hong Kong will now be treated the same as mainland China. No special privileges, no special economic treatment and no export of sensitive technologies."

The British government earlier on Tuesday banned Chinese telecoms firm Huawei from its 5G network.

China said it would “respond as necessary and impose sanctions on the relevant American individuals and entities”.

“We urge the US to correct its mistakes. If the US stubbornly pursues this path, China will give a firm response.”