China has voiced strong opposition to Japan’s proposed export controls on certain semiconductor-related items, raising concerns about the potential impact on global trade and supply chains.
On Monday, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a statement expressing “grave concerns” over Japan’s plans. The spokesperson emphasized that the measures would “seriously affect normal trade between Chinese and Japanese enterprises” and could harm the stability of the global supply chain.
The spokesperson urged Japan to “correct its wrong practices in a timely manner,” warning that China would “take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises.”
The semiconductor industry, being highly globalized, relies on seamless cooperation and trade across borders. The spokesperson highlighted that moves by a few countries to “generalize the concept of national security” and “abuse export control measures” have deviated from the principles of free trade and multilateral trade rules. Such actions, they argued, could fragment the global market and disrupt the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the semiconductor sector, as countries around the world grapple with supply shortages and strive to bolster their own industries. Japan’s proposed export controls are seen by some analysts as part of a broader effort to regulate the flow of critical technology.
Both China and Japan play significant roles in the global semiconductor industry. Any restrictions on trade between the two could have far-reaching consequences for businesses, investors, and consumers worldwide.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders across Asia and beyond are closely monitoring the developments, mindful of the intricate interdependencies that characterize the modern technology landscape.
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China blasts Japan's planned export controls on semiconductors
cgtn.com