China on Monday imposed sanctions on ministers from Paraguay and Belize over their countries’ diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the self-ruled island Beijing claims as its territory.

The sanctions target Paraguay’s Communications Minister Gustavo Villate and Belize’s Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca. China’s foreign ministry said the measures include freezing their assets in China, denying them visas and prohibiting Chinese organisations from doing business with them.

"Certain anti-China politicians... driven by self-interest, have stubbornly supported" Paraguay and Belize's diplomatic relations with Taiwan, the ministry said in online statements.

Beijing accused the ministers of having "taken a series of egregious actions and statements... damaging China's core interests". The sanctions took effect on Monday to "safeguard national security" and "oppose separatist activities", the ministry added.

The move came two days after Taiwan celebrated its national day. Villate marked the occasion on social media, stating, "Paraguay reaffirms its relationship of friendship and cooperation, based on shared values and principles: the self-determination of peoples, human rights and democracy".

Taiwan currently has only 12 diplomatic allies as Beijing continues efforts to isolate the island by persuading countries to end their official ties with Taipei. China has vowed to take control of Taiwan by force if necessary.

Paraguayan President Santiago Pena has called Taiwan a "fundamental partner" for his South American country. Earlier this year, he visited Taipei and signed several agreements covering mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, cybersecurity cooperation, and investment in artificial intelligence and computing.

Last month, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited Belize. His ministry said both sides agreed to deepen their bilateral ties.

Taiwan’s other diplomatic allies in the Americas include Guatemala and Haiti. The island also maintains formal diplomatic relations with several Caribbean islands.