China has responded to incoming restrictions on ZTE's sourcing in the US and the country isn't happy with the US' order. The restrictions will effectively prevent ZTE from obtaining components from US companies due to ZTE having violated export rules by sending technology to Iran.

Hong Lei, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, says China is opposed to this move and the country believes it could damage international trade relations.

Any company that wants to work with ZTE will have to apply for an export license and it has been reported those licenses will normally be denied, thereby cutting ZTE off from Intel, Microsoft, Qualcomm, and others.

ZTE is "highly concerned" about the sanctions, noting it has worked with US officials to handle the Iran issue.