China Denies Wrongdoing Amid Exit Ban on Americans

On Tuesday, China refuted allegations of misconduct, even as reports emerged about “dozens of” Americans facing restrictions on their ability to leave the country. This policy reportedly includes at least one government employee from the U.S.

A U.S. citizen working for the Department of Commerce found himself unable to depart China on Monday afternoon. His passport, credit card, cell phone, and iPad were confiscated on April 14, preventing him from returning home.

According to reports, his passport was returned a week later, on April 22, but he was still told he could not leave China.

A spokesperson from the State Department confirmed to Fox News Digital that the individual is indeed a U.S. patent and trademark office employee traveling for personal reasons, although details about other officials affected remain unclear. Guo Zi-Kung, speaking for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated during a press briefing, “China supports the rule of law and processes entry and exit according to the law.”

In a response to Fox News Digital’s inquiries, the State Department remarked that the Chinese government has a history of barring U.S. citizens and other foreigners from exiting the country. They mentioned tracking such incidents closely and raising concerns about the well-being of affected citizens, urging the Chinese authorities to allow their return promptly.

In November 2024, the U.S. government issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Americans contemplating trips to China, cautioning travelers to pay attention to the enforcement of local laws related to exit bans.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington claimed they do not recognize the specifics of this case but asserted their commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of foreign citizens within China. However, they also emphasized the expectation that foreign individuals abide by Chinese laws.

While the Universal Declaration of Human Rights grants individuals the right to freedom of movement, including exit from their own country, this right is not absolute and can be subject to conditions like national security concerns.

It remains unclear why the Commerce Department employee was prevented from returning to the U.S., especially since his wife resides there. He was reportedly questioned by the Chinese Intelligence Agency regarding his previous military service.

Reports indicate that many Americans are currently barred from leaving China. Most recently, a Wells Fargo executive encountered similar restrictions, prompting the bank to suspend all business travel to China.

Wells Fargo has not provided any immediate comments regarding the situation impacting their employee, who is reportedly being detained in relation to a criminal investigation. The duration of her stay in China remains uncertain.