Japan has strongly criticized China’s decision to ban exports of dual-use items to Tokyo, calling the move “absolutely unacceptable and deeply regrettable.” Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Japan has lodged a formal protest, demanding the withdrawal of the measures. The export curbs follow remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan, further straining already tense Japan–China relations. Tokyo says it is assessing the impact of the restrictions, which cover goods and technologies with both civilian and military applications, including rare earth elements vital for chips and drones.