To justify its protectionist agenda, Washington has again sought to paint Chinese enterprises as “national security threats” without providing any substantial evidence. China’s Ministry of Commerce announced enhanced export controls on drones and related dual-use items to the US. While key technologies can be restricted and supply chains disrupted, the drive of Chinese enterprises for industrial advancement will not be halted. This achievement underscores that Chinese companies, making the most of what they have, continue to improve their competitiveness in high-tech sectors. By politicizing technology and weaponizing “national security”, Washington will ultimately curb global scientific advancement — and, in the long run, its own competitiveness.