China has directed its companies to defy US sanctions targeting five Chinese oil refiners accused of trading Iranian fuel. This move signifies a new phase in Beijing's efforts to counter American jurisdiction, potentially complicating US sanctions enforcement.

China has ordered companies throughout the country not to comply with US sanctions on five Chinese oil refiners accused of trading in Iranian fuel, a move observers say could mark a new stage in Beijing’s pushback against American long-arm jurisdiction. The order is the first application of a measure designed to block “improper” foreign actions, and could be a potential headache for US sanctions enforcement, according to analysts. The order was issued in response to a series of US sanctions...