Japan Slams China’s Dual-Use Export Ban
Japan has criticised China’s decision to ban exports of certain dual-use items to Japan, calling the move unacceptable and warning of its potential impact on economic and security ties between the two countries. Tokyo said the restriction runs counter to international trade norms and unfairly targets Japan amid rising regional tensions.
What the Export Ban Covers
The Chinese measures apply to dual-use goods, which include products and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Japanese officials said the restrictions appear to cover advanced materials and components linked to defence and high-technology manufacturing. There are growing concerns in Tokyo that rare earth elements, which are critical for electronics, automotive manufacturing, and defence equipment, could also come under tighter controls.
Japan’s Official Response
Japan’s government lodged a formal protest with Beijing, stating that the export ban lacks transparency and justification. Officials said there is no evidence that Japan has misused Chinese exports in a way that would warrant such action. Tokyo has demanded that China withdraw the restrictions and warned that continued curbs could damage mutual trust and economic cooperation.
Diplomatic Context
The export ban comes amid broader diplomatic friction between the two countries over regional security issues, including concerns related to Taiwan and military activity in the Asia-Pacific. Japan has maintained that it is entitled to express security concerns in line with international law and alliances, and that economic measures should not be used as political pressure tools.
Economic and Strategic Implications
Japan remains heavily dependent on China for certain critical minerals despite diversification efforts over the past decade. Analysts warn that prolonged export restrictions could disrupt Japanese supply chains and raise costs for manufacturers. The dispute has added to fears of further economic decoupling in East Asia as geopolitical tensions increasingly spill into trade and technology controls.
