China expands export restrictions on Japanese organisations amid rising tensions

China has expanded its export restrictions by adding 20 Japanese organisations to a blacklist that limits access to items with both civilian and military applications.

China has expanded its export restrictions by adding 20 Japanese organisations to a blacklist that limits access to items with both civilian and military applications. The move marks another escalation in the ongoing diplomatic and trade dispute between Beijing and Tokyo, which has intensified over security concerns and regional tensions.

China’s Commerce Ministry announced the decision on Monday, saying the organisations had contributed to strengthening Japan’s military capabilities. According to the ministry, the restrictions are intended to protect China’s national security and fulfil its international obligations related to non proliferation.

The latest measures target a number of technology firms, research institutions and defence related companies involved in supplying equipment and engineering support to Japan’s military sector. Among the organisations listed are the National Institute for Defense Studies and Mitsubishi Electric Defense and Space Technologies Corporation.

In addition to the blacklist, China placed another 20 Japanese organisations on a separate watchlist. Companies wishing to export products with possible military applications to these organisations will now be required to complete additional risk assessments and provide guarantees that the items will not be used to strengthen Japan’s defence capabilities. Chinese authorities said organisations placed on the watchlist may request removal if they cooperate with official verification procedures.

The latest restrictions follow months of growing political tensions between the two countries. Relations became more strained after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested last year that Japan could respond militarily if Taiwan were attacked. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it is prepared to bring the self governed island under its control if necessary.

Earlier this year, Beijing also imposed export controls on dozens of Japanese companies it claimed were linked to military development. Monday’s announcement further expands those measures and signals China’s willingness to use trade restrictions as part of its broader strategic policy.

A spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry accused Japan of moving toward what was described as a new form of militarism. The spokesperson defended the latest restrictions as lawful and justified while insisting that they would not disrupt normal trade and economic relations between the two countries.

The dispute also reflects increasing competition over advanced technology and critical resources. China remains the world’s largest producer and processor of rare earth minerals, which are essential for manufacturing products such as electric vehicles, smartphones, advanced electronics and military equipment. Beijing has increasingly used export controls on these materials as part of its national security strategy.

Japan, together with the United States and several allied countries, has been working to reduce dependence on Chinese supplies of rare earth minerals and other strategic materials. These efforts have gained momentum as governments seek to strengthen supply chain security and reduce vulnerabilities linked to geopolitical tensions.

Since taking office, Prime Minister Takaichi has accelerated Japan’s efforts to expand its defence capabilities with support from the United States. The shift represents a significant change from the country’s long standing post war security policy and has been closely watched across the region.

Analysts believe the latest Chinese measures could further complicate economic relations between Asia’s two largest economies. While both governments continue to maintain strong trade links, disagreements over security, technology and regional influence are becoming increasingly difficult to separate from their commercial relationship. The new export restrictions are expected to add further pressure as both countries continue competing in areas viewed as vital to their national interests.