Japan strongly protests China's inclusion of Japanese companies in the export control list
According to Kyodo News, on the 24th, Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Sato Kei stated at a press conference that Japan strongly protested China's inclusion of Japanese companies in the export control list and demanded the withdrawal of the measures.
On the 24th, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a notice, including 20 Japanese entities that "participate in enhancing Japan's military strength" in the export control list, including subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. As of now, export operators are prohibited from exporting dual-use items to these 20 entities. Kyodo News mentioned that this may be related to the export of rare earths. This move seems to be a countermeasure against Prime Minister Takayama Hayami's response on Taiwan, aiming to strengthen pressure on Japan.
Another notice from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce indicated that another 20 Japanese entities, including Subaru, Hino Motors, and TDK, were added to the list of entities under scrutiny for export control. The notice pointed out that the final users and purposes of dual-use items cannot be verified, and the Ministry of Commerce will implement stricter reviews for exports of dual-use items to entities on the list of concern. Kyodo News believes that the export of rare earths, which the Chinese government has classified as dual-use items, may further stagnate.
Sato Kei said, "It is absolutely unacceptable, and we feel extremely regretful. We have made a strong protest and requested the withdrawal of the measures."
The named companies expressed views such as "will assess the impact."
The spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that the aforementioned measures aim to stop Japan's "militarization" and nuclear ambitions, and are entirely proper, reasonable, and legal. The act of listing by the Chinese side is only aimed at a few Japanese entities, and the relevant measures only apply to dual-use items, not affecting normal Sino-Japanese trade. Japanese entities that abide by laws and regulations need not worry at all.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1858052124105740/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.