China Targets 40 Japanese Firms With Export Curbs Over ‘Remilitarisation’ Concerns

China on Monday expanded export controls against 40 Japanese entities , accusing Tokyo of accelerating remilitarisation amid rising tensions over Taiwan and regional security. The latest restrictions, announced by China's Commerce Ministry , build on similar measures introduced in February and further strain already fragile bilateral relations.

Twenty Japanese entities, including multiple divisions of Mitsubishi Corporation , have been placed on an export control list, prohibiting Chinese and foreign exporters from supplying them with Chinese made dual use items that have both civilian and military applications. Another 20 entities, including Mitsui E&S and divisions of Fujitsu and Komatsu , have been added to a watch list requiring special export licences, risk assessments and written assurances that the goods will not be used for military purposes.

Additional entities named in other reports include the National Institute for Defense Studies , subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries , Mitsubishi Electric and Kawasaki Heavy Industries . China said the measures target organisations it believes contribute to Japan's military capabilities and insisted they are lawful and should not affect broader bilateral trade.

The Commerce Ministry said, "China's measures are entirely justified, reasonable and lawful. They are aimed at firmly deterring Japan's reckless pursuit of new militarism," while urging Tokyo to "recognise its mistakes" and reverse course.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara condemned the restrictions as " absolutely unacceptable ", demanded their withdrawal and said Tokyo would consider an appropriate response.

The latest action follows Japan's continued military modernisation, including deployment of a Type 12 missile launcher on Minamitorishima , expanded long range strike capabilities and revised defence policies after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated Japan could intervene if China used force against Taiwan. China has also increased military and coast guard activity around Taiwan, drawing criticism from the United Kingdom, Germany and France.