Developing | China bans exports of military-related goods to Japan as dispute intensifies

China has banned the export of goods with both commercial and military applications to end users linked to the Japanese military amid a protracted diplomatic row between Beijing and Tokyo.

Effective immediately, the export of these items – known as “dual-use” goods – to Japanese military end users, for military purposes, or to any other end users that would “contribute to enhancing Japan’s military capabilities” is prohibited, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced on Tuesday.

While “dual-use” items are not weapons themselves, as they are usually primarily designed for civilian purposes, they can significantly contribute to the development or production of weapons and military systems.

Common examples include drones and rare earth elements – essential components of numerous goods in the tech and defence sectors – as well as high-performance semiconductors.

Organisations and individuals that transfer or supply these items to Japan in violation of the new provisions will be held legally accountable, the ministry said.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi angered Beijing on November 7 by suggesting that an attack on Taiwan could trigger a response from the Japanese military.