Japan tightens controls on exports of chip manufacturing equipment. (Source: Reuters)

The ministry stated that China reserves the right to take resolute measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests.

Previously, in March 2023, Japan imposed restrictions on the export of 23 types of leading semiconductor chip manufacturing equipment.

Notably, the list includes lithography systems, the technology used to print complex circuits on thin semiconductor wafers, which are essential for advanced chip manufacturing, as well as cleaning equipment for semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

For nearly six months, the US government has been lobbying allies, including Japan, to introduce policies to limit the transfer of advanced technologies related to semiconductor chip production to China.