Japan has urged China to reverse its decision to impose stricter export controls on dual-use products, which may include rare earth metals.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced in a statement on Tuesday that authorities “have decided to strengthen export controls on dual-use goods to Japan,” noting that the new measures take effect immediately.
Tensions between the two countries
Relations between the two Asian nations have been strained since the Japanese Prime Minister stated in November that Tokyo might intervene militarily if Beijing uses force against Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory.
This measure is the latest retaliatory step by China following statements by the Japanese Prime Minister, with Beijing explicitly demanding that the Japanese government leader retract her remarks.
The statement did not specify particular goods covered by this measure. China classifies various goods in sensitive sectors such as biotechnology, aerospace, and communications as having potential dual-use and therefore subject to export controls.
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia with a rich cultural history spanning thousands of years, from its ancient Shinto traditions and imperial rule to the feudal era of samurai and the modernizing Meiji Restoration. Today, it is known for its unique blend of deep traditional arts and cutting-edge technology.
China
China is one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations, with a recorded history spanning over four millennia. It is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, which reflect its long imperial past and profound cultural achievements.
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island located off the southeastern coast of China, with a complex history involving indigenous cultures, periods of Dutch and Spanish colonial rule, settlement by Han Chinese, and Japanese administration from 1895 to 1945. Following the Chinese Civil War, the Republic of China government relocated to Taiwan in 1949, establishing its administration there. The island is known for its vibrant democracy, technological industry, and distinct cultural developments.
Beijing
Beijing is the capital of China, with a history spanning over three millennia as a significant political and cultural center. It served as the seat of imperial power during several dynasties, most notably the Ming and Qing, and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Today, it is a major global metropolis blending ancient architecture with modern development.
Tokyo
Tokyo, originally a small fishing village called Edo, became Japan’s political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his shogunate there. It was renamed Tokyo (“Eastern Capital”) in 1868 when the emperor moved his court from Kyoto, solidifying its status as the nation’s capital and a global metropolis.
