January 7, 2026 | 03:18 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - China is tightening exports of civilian-military dual-use items to Japan on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. China's Ministry of Commerce stated that the policy takes effect immediately and is intended to prevent the use of items that could enhance Japan's military capabilities.
According to a report by Kyodo News, the ministry mentioned that the export of any products potentially aiding the strengthening of Japan's military capabilities is now banned. The Chinese government also warned that individuals or entities from any country or region that violate the latest trade regulations will be held legally liable.
In its official statement, the ministry stated that the new updated rules are necessary to "safeguard national security" and "fulfill international obligations such as nonproliferation."
Aftermath of Japan's Remark on Taiwan
A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce said that this policy was taken in response to statements by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. The statement was referred to as a "gross interference" in China's internal affairs.
Tensions arose from Takaichi's statement in the Japanese parliament on November 7, which signaled Japan's military actions if China took action against Taiwan. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and strongly opposes any foreign support for the island.
According to The Times of India, relations between China and Japan have deteriorated in recent months due to the remarks. Last December, Japan also stated that Chinese military aircraft locked onto Japanese fighter jet radar, but Tokyo assessed that the flight distance remained within safe limits.
Rare Earth Restrictions Risk
The Chinese government's announcement did not specify the list of products affected by the restrictions. However, China Daily reported that Beijing is considering tightening export license reviews for a number of rare earth-related products to Japan. China dominates the global supply of rare earths and other essential minerals used in modern technology, including electric vehicles and weapon systems.
The Japanese government has officially protested against China's policy. Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Masaaki Kanai, Director-General of the Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, urged the withdrawal of the restrictions when meeting with China's Deputy Chief of Mission in Tokyo, Shi Yong. Kanai deemed the policy specifically targeting Japan as deviating from international practices and is "absolutely unacceptable."
Since Takaichi's statement, China has also increased pressure on Japan beyond the military sector, including urging its citizens to postpone travel and studies to Japan, as well as canceling a number of events involving Japanese artists and content in China.
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