China says export controls target Japan's military uses

China's restrictions on exports of dual-use items to Japan are intended to curb the country's remilitarization and attempts to acquire nuclear weapons, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Monday.

Guo made the remarks at a regular news briefing when asked whether China's restrictions on rare-earth exports to Japan and their impact on US supply chains would be discussed at the China-US summit in Washington later this week.

In accordance with laws and regulations, according to Guo, China has prohibited exports of all dual-use items used for military purposes — or that could be used to strengthen Japan's military capabilities — to Japanese military end users.

China's position on safeguarding the stability and security of global production and supply chains for critical minerals remains unchanged, Guo said, adding that all parties have a responsibility to play a constructive role in this regard.