Diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have intensified after Tokyo formally called on Beijing to cancel newly imposed export restrictions on dual-use products with potential military applications.
Japan’s Foreign Ministry described the measures as “unacceptable” and inconsistent with global trade norms, warning that the controls could threaten the steady supply of rare earth minerals crucial to Japan’s technology sector.
China’s commerce ministry announced on Tuesday that it had decided to strengthen export controls on items classified as dual-use goods to Japan, effective immediately.
Although Beijing did not list the specific products affected, the move has sparked concern in Tokyo that rare earth shipments may be targeted.
Rare earth minerals are essential components in the production of smartphones, electric vehicles, advanced weapons systems, and renewable energy technologies.
China remains the world’s dominant supplier, accounting for more than 70 percent of global output.
More than 70 percent of Japan’s rare earth imports come from China, according to the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy.
Analysts say any disruption would deal a heavy blow to Japanese manufacturers that rely on the materials.
Japanese official Masaaki Kanai, secretary general of the Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, lodged a strong protest with Shi Yong, the Chinese embassy’s deputy chief of mission, hours after the announcement.
Kanai stressed that the restrictions “deviate significantly from international practice” and urged China to withdraw them without delay.
The latest trade action follows remarks made in November by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested Japan could consider a military response if Taiwan were attacked. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, viewed the comments as provocative.
China has repeatedly condemned Japan’s expanding defence capabilities and closer security alignment with Western allies, particularly the United States.
A previous diplomatic clash in 2010 led China to temporarily halt rare earth exports to Japan, prompting Tokyo to seek alternative suppliers. Despite diversification efforts since then, Chinese minerals still make up the bulk of Japan’s imports.
Global risk consultancy Teneo said the vague language of Beijing’s statement leaves room for speculation about its true intent.
“The impact of the new measures could range from almost entirely symbolic to highly disruptive,” the firm noted, adding that the restrictions may be designed to pressure Japan into softening its stance on Taiwan.
With the dispute unfolding, Japanese businesses and policymakers are bracing for potential economic ripple effects as both Asian powers navigate an increasingly fragile relationship.