Japanese companies in the military sector, or those linked to it, are effectively cut off from Chinese supplies.
The Chinese government said on Tuesday it will strengthen export controls on dual-use items to Japan, banning shipments that could contribute to Japan’s military capabilities, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Commerce. The measures, issued under China’s Export Control Law, prohibit shipments of all dual-use goods to Japanese military users, for military purposes, or for any end-use deemed to enhance the country’s military strength. The controls take effect immediately.
Dual-use items are products, software, or technologies with both civilian and military applications. China has continuously expanded its list of export-controlled items in recent years, repeatedly flagging their dual-use nature. Beijing also added numerous critical minerals, including multiple rare earth elements, as well as technology metals such as gallium and germanium, to the list.
While not an outright export ban to the entire Japanese industry, companies in the military sector or linked to it are effectively cut off from Chinese supplies. The Chinese ministry added that organizations and individuals in any country or region that transfer or provide Chinese-origin dual-use items to Japan in violation of the rules will be held legally responsible.
The move comes amid heightened tensions between Beijing and Tokyo following recent comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan and Japan’s approval of a record defense budget, Reuters reports. China regards Taiwan as its territory, a position rejected by the island’s government.
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