China-Japan Feud Escalates: Tokyo Slams Export Controls Amid Taiwan Tensions

• China imposed immediate export controls on dual-use items with military applications to Japan, escalating diplomatic tensions.
• Tokyo, through Masaaki Kanai, protested the measures as "absolutely unacceptable" and demanded their withdrawal.
• The controls are linked to Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's remarks suggesting military intervention if China seizes Taiwan.
• Beijing is also considering tighter export license reviews for rare earth-related items, critical for military equipment.
• Japan relies on China for 70% of its rare earth imports, recalling a 2010 incident where China used rare earths as a weapon.

Why It Matters: China's new export controls on Japan, fueled by Taiwan remarks, deepen their diplomatic and economic rift.