Japan Bans Exports Of Nearly 300 Products To Russia, Belarus

Japan designated Tuesday nearly 300 items and technologies as subject to an export ban on Russia and Belarus from later this week to prevent them from boosting their military capabilities, as part of Tokyo's sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Mainichi Japan reported.

Photo Insert: Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

The embargo on exports of 266 products, such as semiconductors, communication equipment, and cutting-edge materials, and 26 technologies, including design programs for chip-making machines, will take effect on Friday, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In addition, exports of oil-refining equipment and related technologies to Russia, one of the world's major oil producers, will be prohibited, the ministry said.

All exports to 49 military-related Russian entities and two Belarusian organizations, including government agencies and manufacturers of aircraft and ships, will be strictly forbidden.

The move came as Japan and other Western nations, including members of the Group of Seven major developed countries, have been ramping up economic sanctions on Russia as the situation in Ukraine shows no sign of improving with Moscow stepping up its attacks on the former Soviet republic since Feb. 24. Belarus has been accused of aiding the Russian aggression.

The United States and European nations have similarly banned shipments of products for military use and general-purpose commodities that could be used to strengthen Russian forces' capabilities. As an exceptional measure, the ministry said exports to the two countries for humanitarian purposes could be allowed.

WEEKLY FEATURE : MVP Group Keeps Lights On During Pandemic