Japan urges China to drop 'unacceptable' new export controls

- Representational photo.

TOKYO: Japan has urged China to revoke tougher new export controls on products with potential military uses, possibly including vital rare earth minerals, in a further escalation of Beijing and Tokyo's diplomatic tussle.

The Chinese commerce ministry said Tuesday (Jan 6) that authorities have "hereby decided to strengthen export controls on dual-use items to Japan", effective immediately.