Japan Bans Exporting to China-Based Firms that Support Russia’s War in Ukraine

Japan has announced a new round of sanctions targeting individuals and entities backing Russia’s war on Ukraine. The restrictions extend to companies in India, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan and mark the first instance of Japan imposing sanctions on China-based businesses related to the conflict in Ukraine.

Among the firms facing sanctions are Hong Kong-based Asia Pacific Links Ltd, a provider of microchips for Russian drones, and China-based Yilufa Electronics Limited. These sanctions, mirroring measures taken by other nations such as the United States, prohibit Japanese companies from exporting to the sanctioned entities.

U.S. officials have alleged that China is supporting Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine by supplying drone and missile technology for Moscow’s significant military mobilization. Last week, the U.S. expanded its sanctions on Russia to include China-based companies involved in selling semiconductors to Moscow.

Furthermore, Beijing and Moscow are engaged in intricate efforts to facilitate bilateral payments, a move that could expose certain Chinese financial institutions to potential sanctions.