Tokyo: Japan has strongly criticised China after Beijing imposed new export restrictions on items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, warning that the move could disrupt key supply chains and further strain already tense relations between the two countries.
China announced that it would block exports of so called dual use goods to Japanese military end users or for uses linked to defence. The list includes sensitive materials and technologies, with rare earth elements now drawing particular attention because of their importance to Japan’s manufacturing industry.
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary said the decision was unacceptable and deeply regrettable, adding that Tokyo has lodged a formal protest and urged Beijing to withdraw the measure. Japanese officials argue that the restrictions go beyond normal international practice and unfairly target a single country.
The dispute is rooted in recent political tensions. Chinese authorities linked the export controls to remarks by Japan’s prime minister, who warned that any military action against Taiwan could pose a serious threat to Japan’s own security. Beijing demanded that the comments be withdrawn, but Tokyo has stood by its position.
Although China has not announced a full ban on rare earth exports, analysts say the current restrictions could be a first step toward broader curbs. China dominates global production and processing of rare earths, which are essential for making electric vehicles, electronics, wind turbines and defence equipment. Japan still depends heavily on Chinese supplies despite efforts to diversify in recent years.
Market reaction in Japan was cautious, with shares of some manufacturing and resource related companies slipping amid concerns about future supply risks. Industry groups have warned that any tightening of rare earth exports could raise costs and slow production if alternatives are not secured quickly.
China’s commerce ministry said the controls are aimed at protecting national security and preventing sensitive items from being used for military purposes abroad. Officials stressed that the measures are lawful under China’s export control framework.
The latest move highlights how economic tools are increasingly being used in regional geopolitical disputes. With trade, security and diplomacy now closely intertwined, observers say both sides face pressure to manage the fallout carefully to avoid long term damage to one of Asia’s most important economic relationships.