China on Tuesday banned exports of dual-use goods that can serve military purposes to Japan, a move that comes at time of heightened tensions between the two countries over Taiwan, a self-ruled island Beijing claims as its sovereign territory.
The Chinese commerce ministry warned that individuals or organizations violating the ban would face legal action, regardless of nationality. The ministry did not specify the items affected, but technology products such as drones and navigation systems could be included.
Japan’s Foreign Ministry strongly protested, calling the measure targeted and “unacceptable,” and demanded its withdrawal. The announcement follows months of escalating friction, including Japan’s plans to double military spending and incidents of Chinese aircraft locking radar on Japanese jets.
China recently conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemning both Taiwan and Japan’s “pro-independence” stance.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping also met South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, urging regional cooperation to defend the outcomes of World War II and maintain stability in Northeast Asia.