China’s Ministry of Commerce has imposed export restrictions on 20 Japanese entities, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, JAXA, and the National Defense Academy of Japan, citing their role in strengthening Japan’s military capabilities.
The measures block exports of “dual-use” goods — items with civilian and military applications — and add a further 20 firms, including Subaru, to a watch list limiting access to Chinese products.
“These measures aim to prevent Japan’s ‘re-militarization’ and nuclear ambitions and are fully justifiable, reasonable and lawful,” the ministry said in a statement.
Key developments:
• Restrictions may include rare earths, critical to EV motors and missile systems.
• Beijing links the move to Japan’s defence expansion and Taiwan policy.
• Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged defence spending of 2% of GDP.
• Tokyo has formally protested, calling the controls “absolutely unacceptable”.
The dispute reflects rising China–Japan tensions over Taiwan and regional security.
ℹ️ nytimes
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