China adds 20 Japanese entities to export control list for dual-use items

China says it will ban exports of dual-use items with both civilian and military applications to 20 additional Japanese companies and organizations.

China’s Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday that the 20 entities are involved in enhancing what it called “Japan’s military capabilities.” It said they will be added to a list of entities subject to the export ban.

The ministry also said a separate group of 20 Japanese entities will face tighter dual-use export controls on the grounds that Beijing cannot confirm the end-use of the products.

It is not clear whether the items subject to the export controls include rare earth minerals.

A spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry said “the measures are aimed at deterring Japan’s remilitarization and nuclear ambitions and they are completely reasonable and lawful.”