Fact Check: "Over 130 companies in Asia are advertising banned components for sale to Russia."
What We Know
The claim that "over 130 companies in Asia are advertising banned components for sale to Russia" suggests a significant level of non-compliance with international sanctions imposed on Russia due to its actions in Ukraine. Various sources indicate that despite sanctions, there are ongoing shipments of restricted goods, including semiconductors, to Russia. A report from the New York Times highlighted that over 6,000 companies have been involved in shipping nearly $4 billion worth of restricted goods to Russia, with many of these shipments originating from locations like Hong Kong, Turkey, and India. This indicates a network of companies, some of which may be based in Asia, that are facilitating these transactions.
Additionally, a report from Al Jazeera noted that Malaysia's chip industry has come under scrutiny for allegedly supplying parts that could support Russia's military efforts. This further supports the notion that companies in Asia may be involved in providing components that are restricted under international sanctions.
Analysis
The assertion that over 130 Asian companies are specifically advertising banned components for sale to Russia lacks direct evidence from credible sources. While it is true that many companies, including those in Asia, have been implicated in circumventing sanctions, the specific number of 130 and the nature of their advertising remain unverified. The New York Times report does not specify the exact number of companies involved in advertising banned components, nor does it confirm that these companies are actively promoting such sales.
Moreover, the credibility of the sources discussing the sanctions and the companies involved varies. The New York Times is generally considered a reliable source, but the broader context of the claim requires more specific evidence linking particular companies to the advertising of banned components. The Al Jazeera report adds context regarding Malaysia's chip industry but does not provide a comprehensive list or verification of the companies involved.
In contrast, reports from RFE/RL indicate that companies in Central Asia are actively trading with Russia in dual-use electronic components, suggesting that the issue is widespread but not limited to just 130 companies or solely in Asia.
Conclusion
The claim that "over 130 companies in Asia are advertising banned components for sale to Russia" is currently Unverified. While there is evidence of companies in Asia being involved in the trade of restricted goods with Russia, the specific number of 130 and the nature of their advertising practices have not been substantiated by credible sources. Further investigation and concrete evidence are required to confirm this claim.
Sources
- List of companies that applied sanctions during the Russo-Ukrainian War
- Fixing Error 130 - MT4 - Forex Factory
- $4 billion in restricted US chips flowed to Russia through one Hong ...
- Malaysia's chip industry falls in crosshairs of US sanctions on Russia
- Central Asian Companies Help Russia Bust Sanctions
