Press Conference by Minister Muto (Excerpt)

*Note: This is a provisional translation for reference purposes only.

10:44 to 10:52 a.m.
Friday, October 25, 2024
Press Conference Room, METI Main Building

Opening Remarks

None

Question-and-Answer Session

China's export control measures

Q: The government of China has been taking measures to impose export controls on the rare metals of gallium and germanium since August 2023 and on some types of graphite since December 2023. As these are raw materials indispensable for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries and semiconductors, some concerns have been arising about the impacts of the measures on Japanese companies whose supply relies on imports from China.

Initially, METI showed its policy to address this issue, stating that it would confirm China’s intention and operational policies involving the measures and that if it was found that inappropriate measures were taken against Japan in light of the international rules, including the WTO rules, Japan would take appropriate actions based on the rules. As around one year has passed since then, could you comment on whether China has taken inappropriate measures or not?

In addition, could you explain your view on what impact this is having on Japanese companies?

A: Thank you very much.

Although I cannot explain the details of the communication between Japan and China, METI has been holding ongoing discussions with the export control authority of China on matters of concern for both countries. METI is scheduled to request China to confirm its intention and operational policies involving the export control restrictions, while taking advantage of the Japan-China Export Control Dialogue as well, which is scheduled to be held soon.

Concerning the impacts on Japanese companies, I will refrain from commenting on the issue as this concerns the business information of individual companies. Still, we will strive to proactively communicate with China and request it to implement appropriate export controls.