China Takes Issue With Japan's Semiconductor Export Controls

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said Japan's export control measures on 23 types of semiconductor manufacturing technology are an abuse of export control measures and departure from international trade rules, according to an unofficial translation. The ministry on May 23 urged Japan to immediately drop the controls, which it says are hindering the normal development of each country's semiconductor industry. Japan imposed the restrictions in late March, aligning with elements of U.S. restrictions on China (see 2303310031). The controls cover six categories of equipment used in chip manufacturing, including cleaning, deposition, lithography and etching.