China Tightens Export Controls on Japan

China announced on Tuesday that it will tighten export controls on dual-use items bound for Japan, potentially including rare earths, following a diplomatic dispute over remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan last November.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that all dual-use items that could enhance Japan’s military capabilities are now prohibited from export to Japanese users. The new restrictions took effect immediately, aimed at “safeguarding national security” and fulfilling international obligations such as nonproliferation.

The tensions were triggered by Takaichi’s November 7 comments in Japan’s parliament, which suggested that an attack on Taiwan could see Japanese defense forces intervene alongside the United States.

In response, China has urged its citizens to reconsider travel and study in Japan. Cultural exchanges have also been impacted, with numerous events featuring Japanese artists and content canceled after Beijing voiced strong disapproval.

Analysts say the export curbs signal a significant escalation in China-Japan tensions, highlighting Beijing’s readiness to leverage trade and technology restrictions in diplomatic disputes, particularly over security issues in the Taiwan Strait.