China restricts exports of military-related materials, from bulletproof vests to plane parts
- Ban will take effect on July 1 and major export destinations of some banned materials in recent months included the US and Israel
- Move is intended to ‘safeguard national security … fulfil international obligations such as non-proliferation’
Beijing announced export controls on various military-related materials and tools on Thursday.
The restricted items include equipment used to make aerospace parts and engines, gas turbines – which can be used in warships and tanks – as well as key components for bulletproof vests.
The rules come into force on July 1 and equipment, software and technology affected by the ban will not be allowed to be exported without authorisation, according to a statement jointly released by the Ministry of Commerce, General Administration of Customs and Central Military Commission’s Equipment Development Department.
“It’s set to safeguard national security and interests and fulfil international obligations such as non-proliferation,” according to a statement from the commerce ministry.
The rare move from Beijing comes amid rising tensions surrounding technology and trade with the United States, as well as increasing pressure from the West to stop aiding Russia’s war with Ukraine.
Since the war broke out, many Chinese entities have been sanctioned by the US for their alleged support for Russia, including the export of equipment that has dual civilain and military uses.