China Defends Export Controls as Japan Criticizes Rare Earth Restrictions
Beijing argues its measures are a restrained response to Japan’s growing military role and its position on Taiwan, while Tokyo says the restrictions are harming its economy.
China has banned the export of all dual-use items to Japanese military users and for Japan's military use. According to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the goal is to limit Japan's remilitarization and its efforts to develop nuclear weapons.
At the G7, Sanae Takaichi complained that China's restrictions on rare earth exports are hurting Japan's economy. This is the same politician who has openly argued that "a Taiwan emergency is a Japan emergency," a statement China sees as interference in its internal affairs.
Japan was defeated in World War II and was disarmed after its military campaigns caused immense destruction across Asia. Today, however, it is expanding its military role while presenting these actions as necessary for security. Wh…
