Japan baned Microchip Export

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Japan imposed export controls on advanced microchip technologies this week in a move widely seen as targeting China, mirroring recent restrictions imposed by the United States and the Netherlands, two other major producers of cutting-edge semiconductors.

Tokyo listed 23 types of semiconductor technology that are now subject to export restrictions, beginning July 23. They include advanced microchip manufacturing equipment, such as machines that deposit films on silicon wafers, to devices that etch out the microscopic circuits of chips.

The controls will affect China’s ability to make advanced chips, analyst Yoshiaki Takayama of the Japan Institute for International Affairs in Tokyo said.

“The Japanese measure complements U.S.-led export control measures because the number of companies with the capacity to manufacture cutting-edge chips is extremely limited,” Takayama told reporters. “The Japanese measure makes it difficult for China not only to import advanced chips, but also to manufacture them.”

He added that Beijing appears to be shifting its semiconductor strategy by focusing on middle- and low-end semiconductor manufacturing rather than cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing.

The United States banned the export of some advanced microchips and semiconductor manufacturing technology to China in October and urged Western allies to follow suit. The Netherlands — another key producer of semiconductors — imposed similar measures in June. Taiwan has also pledged to support Washington’s move.