Beijing: China has introduced fresh export restrictions on Japan, intensifying diplomatic tensions between the two neighbours amid growing friction over Taiwan.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that it would ban the export of so-called dual-use items to Japan, citing concerns over national security. These items include goods and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes and could potentially enhance Japan’s military capabilities.
The ministry said the move was triggered by what it described as erroneous and egregious statements by Japanese leaders regarding Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing claims as part of its territory. The notice did not specify which products would fall under the ban, leaving uncertainty over its potential impact on the Japanese industry.
Japan responded swiftly, lodging a formal protest and demanding that the measures be withdrawn. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the export controls were unacceptable, deeply regrettable, and inconsistent with international trade practices.
Masaaki Kanai, secretary-general of Japan’s Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, conveyed Tokyo’s position directly to Shi Yong, the deputy chief of mission at the Chinese Embassy in Japan, underscoring Japan’s strong opposition to the decision.
Relations between China and Japan have long been strained by historical grievances and territorial disputes, but ties worsened sharply late last year after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi raised the possibility of Japan intervening if China were to attack Taiwan.
Speaking in parliament in November, Takaichi said a Chinese assault on Taiwan would pose a direct threat to Japan’s survival, potentially justifying the use of collective self-defence under the country’s pacifist constitution. The remarks angered Beijing, which has repeatedly vowed to bring Taiwan under its control, by force if necessary.
China has since hardened its rhetoric. In his New Year address, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed that reunification with Taiwan was inevitable, following military drills that simulated a blockade of the island.
Taiwan is governed by the Democratic Progressive Party, which views the island as effectively independent, though it has not formally declared statehood. Taiwan elects its own leaders and maintains its own military, currency, and passport, but it lacks widespread diplomatic recognition, including from Japan.
China insists that countries seeking diplomatic relations with Beijing must not recognise Taiwan, a position that continues to shape regional tensions and diplomatic alignments.
