Chinese home appliance maker Midea has instructed its after-sales service providers to stop taking on work related to Xiaomi and Gree products, according to several industry sources.

The directive was communicated privately by regional managers within Midea’s China division and covers installation and maintenance services for air conditioners made by competing brands, the people said.

Midea’s public relations department said it was not aware of the policy. But several Xiaomi distributors confirmed the move, saying most after-sales work involves installation and that Xiaomi offers both bundled and separate delivery-and-installation options.

They said requiring service partners to choose between brands could loosen Xiaomi’s ties to offline service networks, though third-party providers remain available and the overall impact on consumers should be limited if fees are kept in check.

One Midea employee said the policy was primarily aimed at Xiaomi, whose strong air-conditioner sales this year have increased competitive pressure. The notice was issued in October, the person added.