By Micah Jonah, February 25, 2026
Japan has strongly protested after China restricted the export of “dual-use” items to 20 Japanese companies, escalating a diplomatic dispute between the two neighbours.
Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, Sato Kei described the move by China’s Commerce Ministry as “deplorable” and said it would not be tolerated.
The restrictions target items that can be used for civilian or military purposes. Among the affected entities are subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and Japan’s National Defense Academy.
Beijing said the measures are necessary to safeguard national security and prevent what it described as the remilitarisation of Japan. The Commerce Ministry stated that Chinese exporters must submit risk assessment reports to ensure dual-use items are not used to enhance Japan’s military capabilities.
China also added another 20 Japanese entities to its export restrictions watchlist, including automaker Subaru, petroleum firm ENEOS Corporation, and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation.
The move follows months of rising tensions between Tokyo and Beijing, particularly after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a survival-threatening situation for Japan.
China has previously imposed similar export controls on the United States and Taiwan amid disputes over security and regional stability.
Analysts say the latest restrictions underscore deepening strains between the two major Asian economies, with trade increasingly becoming a tool in broader geopolitical tensions.
