US, China exchange journalist restrictions in latest media dispute

The United States has revoked the visa of a Chinese journalist working for China's state-run Xinhua News Agency in an apparent response to Beijing's recent expulsion of a New York Times correspondent.

The move follows China's decision to expel Vivian Wang, a China-based reporter for The New York Times, in what observers see as a rare direct retaliation cycle involving journalists from both countries.

The New York Times criticized Beijing's decision and called for Wang's reinstatement, while also urging both governments to reverse actions that restrict journalists' access and reporting opportunities.

The newspaper's executive editor, Joseph Kahn, said Wang's removal would further limit independent reporting from China at a time when understanding the world's second-largest economy is increasingly important.

China reportedly linked Wang's expulsion to a DealBook event featuring Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, despite her having no involvement in the interview. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and remains highly sensitive to international platforms given to Taiwanese leaders.

The dispute has heightened concerns among foreign media organisations operating in China, where authorities tightly control journalist accreditation and visas. Beijing has previously expelled journalists and restricted media access over coverage it considers unfavorable.

Media relations between Washington and Beijing have remained strained since 2020, when both countries imposed restrictions on journalists and media organisations. Those actions significantly reduced the presence of American news outlets in China, leaving many bureaus with limited staff.

Although the two governments later reached an agreement allowing a small number of journalists to work in China, the latest dispute signals renewed tensions over press freedom and media access between the world's two largest economies.