World powers are ratcheting up efforts to limit China’s access to key technology know-how. Japan’s decision to restrict exports of 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment has recently come into force.
According to the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, stricter export procedures affect most countries and regions. The exception is 42 states and territories that have already imposed restrictions on exports of semiconductors to China.
The list of goods includes equipment used for heat treatment, lithography, etching, sputtering, and so on. Tighter control standards provide for complicated customs clearance procedures. In addition, further action requires permission from Japan’s trade and industry minister.
However, the initiative has been firmly opposed by China. The country's government is ready to take steps to defend its lawful rights and interests. The measures introduced by the Japanese authorities could "severely undermine the interests and rights of Chinese and Japanese companies and China-Japan trade and economic cooperation," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.
China is confident that these limits will "damage the landscape of the global semiconductor industry, and impact industrial and supply chain security and stability."
