Tokyo Protests as China Blocks Dual-Use Exports to Japanese Companies

Tokyo Protests as China Blocks Dual-Use Exports to Japanese Companies

Japan has strongly protested China’s move to restrict the export of 'dual-use' items to 20 Japanese business entities. The protest follows months of escalating diplomatic tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.

The affected companies include Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Tokyo has labelled the move 'deplorable' and vows not to tolerate it.

China claims the restrictions are necessary to safeguard national security and meet international non-proliferation obligations. The Chinese Commerce Ministry also added 20 entities, including Subaru and ENEOS Corporation, to its export restrictions watchlist.

Tokyo and Beijing have a historically adversarial relationship, with tensions escalating after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks about potential military involvement in the Taiwan Strait. This has led to increased regional tensions and economic countermeasures.