China Blacklists 20 Japanese Firms Over Dual-Use Goods

China’s Ministry of Commerce has announced the addition of 20 Japanese companies to its export control list. All the firms were blacklisted due to their involvement with dual-use goods. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated in Beijing on Monday that the decision to add these entities to the list was made in accordance with the law and only targets a small number of Japanese entities. The related measures solely target dual-use goods.

The commerce ministry’s move places 20 Japanese government institutions and companies under export controls because they produce or are linked to goods that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Consequently, Chinese companies are prohibited from selling goods or services to the institutions on the list without approval. ‘The measures taken by China are entirely justified, legitimate, and lawful, aimed at curbing Japan’s reckless neo-militarism steps,’ Guo Jiakun said.

He expressed hope that the restrictions would prompt Japan to turn back from the wrong path. Guo Jiakun also urged Japan to correct its mistakes, conduct deep introspection, and return to the right track. ‘This action will not affect normal business exchanges between China and Japan. Japanese entities need not worry as long as they operate in good faith and comply with the law,’ he added.

According to the Ministry of Commerce Announcement No. 28 of 2026 regarding the inclusion of 20 Japanese entities on the control list, the action was taken because the end-users and end-use of goods from these institutions could not be verified. The announcement further stated that businesses exporting dual-use goods to these entities are not permitted to apply for general licences or obtain export documents through registration and information-filing mechanisms. Should a company still wish to export goods to the listed entities, it must submit a risk assessment report and provide a written commitment that the goods will not be used for any purpose that could help enhance Japan’s military strength.