Norinco is a Chinese state-owned company that manufactures defense equipment, ammunition, and civilian products. The company is known to produce a wide range of products such as firearms, tanks, and other military equipment, as well as motorcycles, vehicles, and even golf clubs.
Founded in 1980 as China North Industries Corporation, Norinco began operations with the goal of helping modernize China's military.
The company's exports were restricted until the early 1990s due to international political concerns.
In the 1990s, Norinco started diversifying into civilian products such as motorcycles, buses, and even real estate.
Norinco has been accused of selling weapons to countries under international arms embargoes, including North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan.
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A Chinese-made version of the Soviet AK-47 assault rifle, the Type-56 has been widely exported and has seen use in conflicts around the world.
A semi-automatic sniper rifle chambered for the 7.62x51 NATO round, the CQ-311 is used by Chinese military and police forces.
A variant of the AR-15 rifle, the CQ-A has been exported to several countries including the United States.
A Chinese-made rocket-propelled grenade launcher, the Type 69 is a common weapon used by insurgent and terrorist groups.
Norinco firearms are generally considered to be reliable and durable, but they may lack the fit and finish of more expensive brands.
Some Norinco firearms, such as the Type-56 and certain models of AK-47 clones, are banned from importation into the United States under the 1989 import ban.
In addition to firearms, Norinco produces a wide range of products such as motorcycles, buses, and golf clubs.
Yes, Norinco is owned by the Chinese government.
Norinco has been accused of selling weapons to countries under international arms embargoes, including North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan. However, the Chinese government denies these accusations.