The United States imposed sanctions on 24 Chinese companies and a number of individuals who participated in construction and hostilities on the disputed islands in the South China Sea, the US State Department and the Commerce Department reported.

In a statement, the US Department of Commerce said two dozen companies have played a role in helping the Chinese military build and militarize the internationally recognized artificial islands in the South China Sea.

The State Department said it would impose visa restrictions on Chinese citizens responsible for or involved in the above activities in the South China Sea.