China adds 40 Japanese entities to export control lists over remilitarisation fears

China has imposed new export controls on 40 Japanese entities, citing concerns over Japan's 'remilitarisation' and its stance on Taiwan. The Ministry of Commerce announced on Monday that 20 entities were placed on a control list, banning all exports of dual-use items from China, while another 20 entities were added to a watch list requiring special licenses and risk assessments Source: AP News.

The measures

Entities on the control list include Japan's National Institute for Defense Studies, Naval Systems Research Center, and Ground Systems Research Center, as well as firms like Mitsubishi Precision and Kawajyu Gifu Manufacturing Source: Al Jazeera. The watch list includes Mitsui E&S, Terra Drone, and Hitachi Advanced Systems Source: SCMP. China's Ministry of Commerce stated that these actions are 'entirely legitimate, reasonable, and lawful' and aimed at deterring Japan's 'new militarism' Source: AP News.

Reactions and context

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara called the moves 'unacceptable' and urged their revocation Source: Al Jazeera. The export controls follow a similar round in February and come amid heightened tensions after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Japan could intervene militarily if China used force against Taiwan Source: AP News. China views Taiwan as its own territory and has increased military pressure, while Japan is reinforcing its own defense capabilities, including deploying longer-range missiles Source: AP News.