US sanctions have hit job prospects in Xinjiang, local official admits for first time

Chen Weijun’s comments are the first official confirmation of the impact of the sanctions, imposed over claims of human rights abuses

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Farm workers in Xinjiang, where the regional government has acknowledged the impact of US sanctions for the first time. Photo: Getty Images

Alcott Weiin BeijingandXinlu Liangin Beijing

Published: 7:30pm, 19 Sep 2025

A senior official with the Xinjiang regional government said US sanctions would lead to reduced job opportunities in the region, in the first official confirmation of their economic impact.

Chen Weijun, vice-chairman of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, told a press conference on Friday that those affected included ethnic Uygurs, but expressed confidence in the region’s future development.

Chen also denied accusations of forced labour – a major reason for the sanctions – and said workers from all ethnic groups were working voluntarily.

“In the short term, US sanctions will have some negative impact on Xinjiang’s economic development,” Chen said.

“Some enterprises face difficulties exporting products, are suffering losses and have reduced production capacity – leading to fewer job opportunities for workers from all ethnic groups, including the Uygurs.”

It was the first time the Xinjiang government had acknowledged the impact of US sanctions on the local economy, first reported by the Post.

The Xinjiang government has not released any data on unemployment directly caused by the sanctions.

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