In a significant move, Japan has officially put into effect export restrictions on advanced chip-manufacturing equipment, aligning with international efforts, particularly led by the United States, to limit China’s access to high-end semiconductor technology that could potentially be utilized for military purposes. The revised trade ministry ordinance under the foreign exchange law now includes 23 chip-manufacturing items that require approval for export. Although the Japanese government has not explicitly singled out China as the primary target, the move has elicited responses from Beijing.
The imposition of these export curbs comes as part of a broader effort to ensure sensitive semiconductor technology does not fall into the wrong hands, especially in the context of geopolitical tensions and national security concerns. The United States, in October of the previous year, introduced comprehensive export controls on specific high-end chips that could be utilized by China to enhance its military capabilities and advance artificial intelligence systems. In the wake of these restrictions, the U.S. called upon Japan and the Netherlands, both possessing advanced chip-manufacturing technologies, to adopt similar measures.
Japan’s updated list of restricted items now encompasses equipment crucial for the chip-making process, including cleaning, checkups, and lithography technologies. Lithography plays a crucial role in producing cutting-edge chips, enabling the creation of intricate patterns etched into semiconductor wafers. By including these items under export restrictions, Japan aims to safeguard critical semiconductor technology and maintain control over its potential use.
While the move may have sparked tensions with China, it also highlights Japan’s commitment to aligning with its key security allies, such as the United States, South Korea, and Taiwan. By simplifying the export process to 42 countries and regions, Japan seeks to streamline trade with its trusted partners and maintain strong security ties.
Approximately 10 Japanese companies involved in the manufacturing of advanced chip-making equipment are likely to be affected by these export curbs. However, industry minister Yasutoshi Nishimura has expressed confidence that the impact on domestic companies will be limited due to the highly specialized nature of the technology covered under the controls. The government’s focus on targeting “extremely advanced” technology indicates its careful approach in balancing security concerns with the needs of its domestic semiconductor industry.
In response to Japan’s export restrictions, China has announced its decision to curb exports of gallium and germanium, two rare earth metals that are essential in chip production. This move is seen as a potential retaliatory measure aimed at the United States’ semiconductor export controls directed at China.
The broader implications of these export curbs are likely to be closely monitored by industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders in the semiconductor sector. Striking the right balance between ensuring national security and maintaining an open and cooperative semiconductor industry is a complex challenge that requires ongoing international cooperation and dialogue.
As Japan takes this significant step to enhance its control over sensitive semiconductor technology exports, the global semiconductor landscape may witness further shifts in trade dynamics and technology access. The development of advanced chips remains a crucial aspect of modern economies and national defense, making it essential for nations to address the security dimensions of semiconductor technology.
© KYODO
