China Imposes Export Restrictions on 20 Japanese Companies to Halt Japan’s ‘Remilitarization’

June 29, Kathmandu – China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a statement on Monday announcing the inclusion of 20 Japanese companies on its export control list to prevent Japan’s efforts toward ‘remilitarization’ and acquiring nuclear weapons. According to the ministry, these companies are involved in enhancing Japan’s military capabilities. Additionally, another 20 Japanese companies have been placed on a separate monitoring list. The ministry stated that this move aims to safeguard China’s national security and interests, as well as to fulfill international obligations such as nuclear non-proliferation.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce emphasized that China’s actions are fully lawful and specifically target a select number of Japanese companies and dual-use materials. The spokesperson clarified, “This will not affect normal economic and trade exchanges between China and Japan. Honest and law-abiding Japanese enterprises need not be concerned about this.” Among the companies listed under export control are the National Institute for Defense Studies of Japan and military research organizations engaged in weapons systems across land, sea, and air domains.

The list also includes several branches of Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, whose operations span defense and aerospace systems, specialized software development, precision instrument manufacturing, engineering services, logistics, maritime technology, and technical support for specialized vehicles. Additionally, Nippon Corporation, a leading aerospace specialist company and subsidiary of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, has also been subjected to these restrictions.

Earlier, in February, China had similarly placed 20 major Japanese companies on its export control list and another 20 on the monitoring list. This strategy is part of Beijing’s effort to increase economic pressure on Tokyo and tightly monitor trade of certain goods. The move followed China’s January announcement to strengthen export controls on dual-use materials.