[9][10] Some of Norinco's international customers include Pakistan, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it negotiated arms-for-minerals deals, as well as Venezuela.

[11][12] Established in 1980 with the approval of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, Norinco is an enterprise group engaged in both products and capital operation, integrated with research and development, manufacturing, marketing and services.

At least one official, Hammond Ku, attempted to sell Chinese-produced tanks and rocket launchers to the undercover agents.

[13][14] In August 2003, the Bush administration imposed sanctions on Norinco for allegedly selling missile-related goods to Iran.

[20] In March 2023, Politico reported that Norinco shipped assault rifles, drone parts, and body armor to Russia between June and December 2022.