Japan criticises China over export ban on dual-use goods
發佈日期: 2026-01-07 21:55
TVB News
Japan has criticised China's decision to ban exports of dual-use goods that can serve military purposes to Tokyo.
The Chinese commerce ministry said in a statement that it is prohibiting the export of items that can have both civilian and military uses.
Beijing says such exports could help enhance Japanese military power, and comes at a time of rising diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara addressed reporters on Wednesday.
"The present measure, which targets only our country, differs significantly from international practices and is entirely unacceptable; we find it extremely regrettable," he said.
He said the Japanese government has conveyed it position to the Chinese side, "lodging a strong protest and requesting the withdrawal of the measure."
Any individual or organisation that violates the rule by transferring or providing these made-in-China products to Japanese groups and people would face legal consequences, regardless of where they are from, the Chinese commerce ministry said.
The notice did not identify or describe specific items, but some exports, particularly in the technology sector such as drones and navigation systems, could be adapted for military use.
The decision was made to safeguard national security and interests and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation, it said.
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday that the country has taken measures in accordance with the law and regulations, which are fully lawful and legitimate.
Relations between Japan and China worsened late last year after Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said its military could get involved if China were to take action against Taiwan.
Beijing has since been demanding that Takaichi retracts her statement.
The China Daily reported on Tuesday that Beijing was considering tightening the license review of rare earth exports to Japan more broadly, which could have a significant impact on major industry, particularly its automotive sector.
A three month curb on Chinese exports of rare earth could cost Japanese businesses 660 billion yen and shave 0.11 percent of annual gross domestic, according to Nomura Research Institute economist, Takahide Kiuchi.
