The Japanese government announced on Friday that it plans to add 23 items, including manufacturing equipment for advanced semiconductors, to its export control list.
Although Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura (pictured) said the measure is "not about any particular country," local media reported that China is the target of the latest action as Japan and the Netherlands agreed to join similar export restrictions that the United States had already imposed against Beijing last year.
Japan's government is allowed by law to control the export of civilian goods that can be used for military purposes. However, 42 countries and regions Japan deems friendly will not be required to seek special licenses for such exports.
