The move follows Beijing’s restrictions against Japan that started in early January.
China has expanded its export control measures against Japan by adding 20 Japanese companies to its dual-use export watch list, further escalating tensions between the two countries over security and strategic supply chains. The move was announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce on June 29 and took immediate effect.
The newly designated entities include companies active in aerospace, drones, defense electronics, machine tools, and the nuclear fuel cycle, among them Mitsui E&S, Terra Drone, ACSL, Japan Nuclear Fuel Limited, Fujitsu Network Solutions, Hitachi Advanced Systems, and several subsidiaries of OKI Electric Industry. Companies placed on the watch list remain eligible to receive Chinese dual-use goods, but exports will be subject to enhanced scrutiny and individual licensing requirements.
Under the new rules, Chinese exporters must submit risk assessments and written assurances that exported products will not be used to strengthen Japan’s military capabilities. Beijing stated that exports involving military end users or end uses that contribute to Japan’s defense capabilities will not be approved.
The latest measures build on restrictions introduced in January, when China tightened export controls on dual-use items destined for Japan amid deteriorating bilateral relations. The controls have accelerated Japanese efforts to diversify supply chains for critical materials and strategic technologies through partnerships in Australia, Africa, Europe, and India.
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