News China bans exports to Japan of dual-use goods with military applications

China moved yesterday to ban exports to Japan of so-called dual-use goods that could be applied to military purposes, against the backdrop of strained relations over Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory. The restriction covers items with both civilian and military applications when destined for Japanese military users or other recipients whose use could strengthen Japan's defence capabilities. The rules apply not only to direct military customers but also to any end-users deemed capable of contributing to Japan's military power.

The ministry warned that individuals or organisations that transfer or supply such Chinese-made products to Japanese entities in breach of the ban would face legal penalties, regardless of nationality or location. While the notice did not list specific products, the measures are expected to affect certain technology-related exports, including drones and navigation equipment that can be adapted for military use. As of now, there has been no immediate response from China's neighbour in Tokyo.

The wording of the curbs is vague enough that it theoretically means China could hit Japanese imports "even if they were for civil use," said Dylan Loh, associate professor at Nanyang Technological University. "Whether they actually do that is a separate question." The export controls mark China's latest move in a pressure campaign against Japan, after Takaichi became her nation's first sitting leader to say Tokyo could deploy its military if Beijing attempted to seize self-ruled Taiwan. She has since refused to retract those comments, maintaining that her country's policy remains unchanged.

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