Japan to explain stance on China's export controls in US next week

Japan's finance minister will meet U.S. counterparts next week to discuss rare earth supplies and to set out Tokyo's concerns about China's recent export controls.

Japan's finance minister, Satsuki Katayama, said she will meet her counterparts in the United States next week to discuss supplies of rare earths and to explain Tokyo's concerns about China's recent export controls. Beijing announced a ban on exports of dual-use items to Japan's military and has been reported to restrict some rare earth-related shipments to Japanese firms. Japanese ministers said they are analysing the situation and coordinating with partner countries. Key points: - Katayama will present Japan's stance to U.S. counterparts next week and described Beijing's actions as a serious concern. - China announced a ban on exports of certain dual-use items to the Japanese military and has been reported to restrict rare earths and powerful magnets to some Japanese companies. - Finance ministers from the Group of Seven are scheduled to meet in Washington on Jan. 12 to discuss rare earth supplies. Summary: Tokyo says China's export moves raise economic security concerns and will explain its position in the upcoming U.S. meetings. Wider discussion among G7 finance ministers is scheduled for Jan. 12 in Washington to address rare earth supply issues.