ISTANBUL

China on Tuesday banned the sale of dual-use items to Japanese end users for military purposes and other reasons.

In accordance with relevant laws and regulations, "in order to safeguard national security and interests and to fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation," Beijing has decided to strengthen the export controls on dual-use items to Japan, the Commerce Ministry said in a statement.

The export of all dual-use items to Japanese military end users, for military purposes, and for any other end-user purposes that contribute to "enhancing Japan's military strength" has been prohibited, effective immediately, the statement added.

Organizations or individuals from all countries and regions violating the ban by transferring or providing relevant dual-use items from China to Japanese organizations or individuals will be held legally accountable, the ministry said.

The ban could affect industries such as drones and rare earths.

Tensions between China and Japan have escalated since November when Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could legally constitute a “survival-threatening situation,” potentially allowing Japan to exercise the right of collective self-defense.

Her remarks triggered a massive backlash from Beijing, with China advising against travel to Japan and re-imposing a ban on imports of seafood, among other restrictive measures.