China to probe tech suppliers for security checks amid row with U.S

A map of China is seen through a magnifying glass on a computer screen showing binary digits in Singapore in this January 2, 2014 photo illustration. REUTERS/Edgar Su

BEIJING (Reuters) - China will investigate providers of important IT products and services to protect "national security" and "economic and social development", the official Xinhua news agency said on Thursday, amid a row over cyber spying with the United States.

Companies that don't pass the checks will no longer be allowed to supply products and services in China, Xinhua cited the State Internet Information Office as saying. Products that don't meet security requirements will be banned.