China Imposes Export Controls on 40 Japanese Entities

The Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China imposed export controls on 40 Japanese entities on June 29 and 30, 2026, citing Japan's reckless pursuit of new militarism and nuclear ambitions. The measures placed 20 entities, including subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Electric, and the National Institute for Defense Studies, on a control list that prohibits the sale of dual-use items—such as rare earths and chip-making equipment—without approval. An additional 20 entities, including Mitsui E&S and divisions of Fujitsu and Komatsu, were added to a watch list requiring special licenses and risk assessments.

Beijing framed the restrictions as a response to the security posture of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested Japan could intervene if China used force against Taiwan. In response, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara condemned the curbs as unacceptable and extremely regrettable, vowing that Japan would take necessary countermeasures.

Parallel to the diplomatic rift, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed a Type-12 missile launcher to Minamitorishima island to extend strike capabilities toward the Chinese coastline. Additionally, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Marine Corps conducted Resolute Dragon joint military exercises in Okinawa and Kyushu. These developments drew a denunciation from North Korea's Korean Central News Agency, which accused Tokyo of transforming into a war nation.