Japan protests China's blacklisting of 20 firms over military concerns

2026-02-24 - 10:42

Japan formally protested to China on Tuesday following Beijing's decision to place 20 Japanese entities on its export control list, a move Tokyo characterized as "absolutely intolerable and extremely regrettable." China's Commerce Ministry imposed the restrictions citing concerns over Japan's military buildup and the need to safeguard national security while fulfilling non-proliferation obligations. Export Controls and Designated Companies Among the blacklisted firms is Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., a major defense and shipbuilding contractor. Chinese export operators are now prohibited from supplying dual-use items to the designated entities, with foreign organizations and individuals also barred from transferring or providing China-origin dual-use items to these companies. The Chinese Commerce Ministry stated any ongoing related export activities must cease immediately, describing the measures as "entirely legitimate, reasonable, and legal" to curb Japan's "remilitarization and nuclear ambitions." Diplomatic Exchange and Tensions Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning defended the action as taken to safeguard national security and interests in accordance with laws and regulations, explicitly stating the aim is "to stop Japan from remilitarization and its attempts at possessing nuclear weapons." Japanese official Kei Sato said the government will "assess the possible impact and consider necessary responses." The measures come amid escalating tensions since November, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could legally constitute a "survival-threatening situation," potentially allowing Japan to exercise collective self-defense. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has vowed reunification, including by force if necessary.