The reason is said to be to prevent the use of advanced semiconductors (chips) in weapons production or the development of bad technologies.
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| Japan expands list of export-controlled items to include advanced chips. (Source: Reuters) |
Japan is expanding the list of export-controlled items to include advanced chips, lithography equipment and refrigeration and freezing machines needed for the production of quantum computers, according to a draft revision to the foreign exchange law, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry officials said.
The new restrictions are expected to come into effect by the end of May 2025, and once implemented, domestic companies will need to apply for a license to export these items. The aim is to prevent these items from being used in weapons or developing bad technologies.
This is not the first time Japan has imposed restrictions on technology exports. Earlier, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry added 42 new entities worldwide to its list of foreign companies and organizations that will be subject to export controls for any dual-use goods. The ministry said the additions will take effect on February 5.
Notably, the list includes a total of about 110 Chinese companies, research institutions and other entities. The statement from China's Ministry of Commerce said that China expects Japan to ensure that the new restrictions do not hinder economic and trade development between the two countries.
In recent years, Japanese companies have benefited greatly from rising demand in the Chinese market, focusing largely on semiconductor manufacturing machinery. In 2024, Japan recorded a record high in exports of such goods to China.
Coupled with restrictions imposed by former US President Joe Biden’s administration on technology exports to China, the latest move by the Japanese government will certainly create additional challenges for Chinese companies looking to source high-tech goods from outside.
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