MOFCOM Spokesperson’s Remarks on Relevant Export Control Measures Targeting Japan
Published: July 26, 2026
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Last verified: Jul 26, 2026 · Report an issue
Executive Summary
China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) expanded export control measures against Japan by adding 20 Japanese entities to a restricted namelist and 20 to a watch list, effective June 29, 2026. These measures target entities involved in or suspected of contributing to Japan's military modernization, imposing stricter controls on dual-use item exports. The action is justified under China's Export Control Law and aims to counter Japan's perceived remilitarization, while claiming not to affect normal trade.
Key Points
MOFCOM added 20 Japanese entities (e.g., National Institute for Defense Studies) to the restricted namelist, prohibiting the export of dual-use items to them and barring overseas entities from transferring China-origin dual-use items to them; all ongoing relevant activities must stop immediately.
Another 20 Japanese entities (e.g., MITSUI E&S Co., Ltd.) were placed on a watch list, where exporters cannot apply for general licenses or obtain export certificates by filling in information; individual licenses require a risk assessment report and written commitment that dual-use items won't enhance Japan's military capabilities.
For watch-listed entities, the review period for export licenses is not subject to the usual time limits under China's dual-use item export control regulations, and MOFCOM will conduct stricter end-user and end-use reviews.
Export applications involving Japanese military users, military uses, or any end user/use that may enhance Japan's military capabilities will not be approved for entities on the watch list.
Entities on the watch list can apply for removal after fulfilling obligations supporting MOFCOM's review, as per Article 26 of the Export Control Regulations, and MOFCOM may remove them after verification.
The measures are based on the Export Control Law and Regulations on Export Control of Dual-Use Items, targeting only specific entities and dual-use items, and are not intended to affect normal economic and trade exchanges between China and Japan.
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