China bans exports of dual-use items to Japan over Taiwan tensions

Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
5h ago
China banned exports of unspecified dual-use items to Japan, and Japan protested and demanded the measures be withdrawn.
China bans exports of dual-use items to Japan over Taiwan tensions
A What happened
China’s Ministry of Commerce said it banned exports of dual-use items to Japan and said the ban was intended to safeguard national security and cover items that could enhance Japan’s military capabilities. Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it issued a protest with China and demanded the withdrawal of the measures. Japan’s Masaaki Kanai told the Chinese Embassy’s deputy chief of mission, Shi Yong, that the ban was absolutely unacceptable, deeply regrettable, and not in line with international practice. The notice did not specify which goods would be banned.

Key insights

  • 1

    China linked the export ban to national security and Taiwan statements: China’s Ministry of Commerce said the ban was intended to safeguard national security and cited Japan’s statements about Taiwan.

  • 2

    Japan rejected the measures as inconsistent with international practice: Japan’s Foreign Ministry said the ban was absolutely unacceptable, deeply regrettable, and did not comply with international practice.

  • 3

    Taiwan remains a central point of dispute: China pledged to unify Taiwan with the mainland using force if necessary, while Taiwan’s governing party considers the island a de facto independent country.

Takeaways

China’s export ban on dual-use items to Japan remains in place as Japan seeks its withdrawal and both sides cite Taiwan-linked security concerns.

Topics

World & Politics Policy & Regulation International Affairs Diplomacy Security & Defense Trade & Tariffs

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