The Hindu, Business Today, October 19 report indicates that China has announced export controls on tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and related items effective November 18. The measures may heighten uncertainties in India’s underground construction equipment supply chain and have triggered debate over domestic manufacturing capabilities. Indian media characterize the move as a "strategic measure rooted in economic coercion." In discussions on Reddit’s India-focused forum, one user described the vulnerability of being dependent on foreign suppliers as "the many humiliations of a service-based economy dominated by external powers." China’s Ministry of Commerce stated that the controlled items possess "clear dual-use characteristics," and the regulations aim to better safeguard national security and interests while fulfilling international obligations related to non-proliferation. Exporters are required to apply for licenses in accordance with established procedures.

India remains highly reliant on imported TBMs, facing ongoing delays in equipment customs clearance since 2024, prompting prior diplomatic engagement with Chinese authorities. In September 2025, German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann disclosed that at least three tunnel boring machines produced at Hydratec’s facilities in China—originally scheduled for delivery to India—were detained by Chinese customs before being released gradually. Subsequently, Hydratec decided to establish a manufacturing facility in India to reduce reliance on Chinese production stages.

In addition to TBMs, China has also announced adjustments to export controls on certain dredging vessels, as well as new restrictions on autopilots, long-range and long-endurance drones, and related technologies. On October 16, China published draft regulations limiting exports of more than 40 advanced technologies, including certain photovoltaic manufacturing processes, artificial intelligence models, and biotechnology platforms. Analysts suggest these measures could further exacerbate uncertainties in India’s underground engineering equipment supply and impede efforts to reduce import dependence and develop indigenous manufacturing capacity.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1879584145547274/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author