CSIS Translation: Updated Japanese Export Controls on High-Performance Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment

Gregory C. Allen

CSIS Translation: Updated Japanese Export Controls on High-Performance Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment

Published July 18, 2023

The following are three key documents that together outline Japan’s updated export control regulations for high-performance semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) issued the three documents together on May 23, 2023. They take effect on July 23, 2023.

These regulations specify which types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment—based on either usage of a specific technology or performance beyond a specific threshold—now require a license in order to be legally exported from Japan. Much of the public reporting on the new regulations speculated that they are targeted at China. However, the controls apply regardless of destination.

The Wadhwani Center would like to thank Hideki Tomoshige for assistance with reviewing and editing these translations.

Commentary is produced by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a private, tax-exempt institution focusing on international public policy issues. Its research is nonpartisan and nonproprietary. CSIS does not take specific policy positions. Accordingly, all views, positions, and conclusions expressed in this publication should be understood to be solely those of the author(s).