TOKYO, Jan 7, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Japan has urged China to revoke its decision to impose tougher export controls on products with potential military uses, possibly including rare earths. The Chinese commerce ministry said in a statement Tuesday that authorities have "hereby decided to strengthen export controls on dual-use items to Japan", noting that the new measures take effect immediately. It comes as China ramps up pressure on Tokyo after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that Japan may react militarily in any attack on Taiwan. While the Chinese statement did not mention specific items, it has fuelled worries in Japan that Beijing may choke supplies of rare earth minerals, some of which are included in China's list of dual-use goods. Global risk consultancy Teneo said the ambiguous wording of the Chinese statement may have been intended to press Takaichi to take a more conciliatory stance towards China.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 07, 2026 03:32 UTC