China Adds Japanese Companies to Export Control Lists Amid Rising Tensions

Beijing takes action as tensions continue over comments by Japanese officials

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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China has added 20 Japanese companies to an export control list and another 20 to a watch list on Tuesday, as tensions continue over comments made by Japanese officials.

Why it matters

The move by China reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two countries, which have been strained over a range of issues including historical disputes and territorial claims. This could disrupt trade and business operations for the affected Japanese companies.

The details

The Chinese government did not provide specific details on which companies were added to the lists or the reasons behind the designations. However, the action comes amid a broader deterioration in China-Japan relations, including recent controversial statements made by Japanese officials.

  • The new export control and watch lists were announced on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

The players

China

The world's second-largest economy and a major trading partner with Japan.

Japan

A key U.S. ally in Asia and a major economic power, with deep trade ties to China.

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What they’re saying

“We have massive courtyards for outdoor space.”

— Robert Du Bree, Director of marketing and sales at RMS Companies (The Associated Press)

The takeaway

This move by China highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two Asian economic powerhouses, which could have significant implications for trade and business operations for the affected Japanese companies.