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WASHINGTON – In March, Chinese telecom firm ZTE agreed to pay over $1 billion in fines for violating U.S. law by selling embargoed technology to Iran. This action followed bipartisan pressure led by Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09).

In documents filed with the Commerce Department, ZTE referred to a second company, identified only as “F7,” which also violated U.S. export control laws. While Congressman Pittenger is aware of a mid-2016 subpoena related to this case, there is no evidence of further action or enforcement activity.

Today, Congressman Pittenger wrote Commerce Secretary Ross to urge that Commerce publicly identify “F7” and take action to hold that company responsible for violating U.S. law.

“We appreciate President Trump and Secretary Ross’ quick action to hold ZTE accountable, which contrasts with the near-inaction by President Obama’s team,” said Congressman Pittenger after mailing the letter. “Now that we have successfully held ZTE accountable for violating U.S. law, we need to take the next step in identifying F7, fully investigating their alleged crimes, and holding them accountable.”

Congressman Pittenger’s letter to Commerce Secretary Ross was co-signed by Representatives Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Dana Rohrabacher (CA-48), Randy Weber (TX-14), Walter Jones (NC-03), Sam Johnson (TX-03), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08).

Letter to Commerce re F7 Identification 4.12.17