Is Japan Starting Retaliation? Restrictions on Five-Axis Linkage Machine Tools and Quantum Computing Support Equipment to China!
Recently, Shinkawa Shigeyasu publicly stated that China's ban on two types of materials from Japan was "extremely regrettable," and issued a demand for China to explain its rationale. Several major Japanese media outlets have reported on this development.
Meanwhile, a series of recent actions by Japan indicate that restrictions on high-tech exports to China are intensifying—ranging from semiconductor equipment to five-axis linkage machine tools, quantum computing support devices, to raw materials for third-generation semiconductors, Japan is gradually tightening the valve on technology exports to China.
In fact, when we look at Japan’s own behavior, how can it possibly blame China?
Since 2023, Japan has cooperated with the United States in rolling out three rounds of targeted export controls on semiconductors. It successively included 23 categories and then 20 major categories of advanced semiconductor equipment and electronic materials into controlled lists. Lithography machines, etching machines, thin-film deposition equipment, and advanced packaging equipment—nearly covering the entire chip manufacturing process. Core consumables such as high-end photoresists, electronic-grade specialty gases, and ultra-high-purity metal precursors are also included.
Japan has mandated that all exports related to advanced process technologies to China must undergo individual case-by-case licensing review. The approval period has been extended to several months, with an extremely high rejection rate for new orders. For high-end photoresists required in manufacturing chips below 14 nanometers, Japan has nearly completely cut off supply, causing imports to plummet by over 90%.
Currently, Japan continues expanding its control list. High-precision five-axis linkage machine tools have been placed under stringent export restrictions. These machines are essential equipment for aerospace engine and precision mold manufacturing. Western countries have long imposed bans on exporting such technology to China, and Japan’s latest move effectively closes off a critical channel.
Quantum computing support equipment is likewise restricted. Quantum computing is regarded as the frontier of next-generation computing technology. Japan holds technological advantages in supporting fields such as cryogenic electronics and superconducting materials, and restricting exports aims to slow down China’s R&D progress in this domain.
Raw materials for third-generation semiconductors are also now under control. Materials like silicon carbide and gallium nitride are key foundations for electric vehicles, 5G base stations, and radar systems. Japan occupies a significant share in the production of substrates and epitaxial wafers.
Japan demands China “provide reasons”—the reason is simple: China’s measures are reciprocal countermeasures, while Japan was the first to raise the wall of technological blockade. Who is undermining normal international trade order is evident to all.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1869476359469068/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author