China to Implement Export Controls on Aviation and Space Components Starting July

Starting July 1st, China will enforce new export controls on certain aviation and space components, as announced by the country’s Commerce Ministry. This regulatory move, supported by China’s customs administration and the Central Military Commission, is aimed at protecting national security and interests, particularly in areas sensitive to technological and military advancements.

The new regulations will require exporters of specific items, including aerospace structural components and equipment and software used in engine manufacturing, to obtain an export license. This measure extends to a variety of critical technologies and materials such as gas turbine engines, molds for spacesuit manufacturing, and advanced polymers used in bulletproof clothing.

This decision, endorsed by the State Council and Central Military Commission, aligns with China’s broader strategy to control the flow of potentially sensitive technologies that could have dual-use applications in both civilian and military domains. The Ministry of Commerce will oversee the licensing process, ensuring that exports do not compromise China’s national security or its international obligations, including non-proliferation.

China’s move to tighten export controls reflects a growing trend among global powers to secure their technological borders, especially in sectors deemed critical for national security. The United States and European Union have similar regulations in place to monitor and restrict aerospace components that could potentially be used for military purposes by adversarial states.

Introduced in the backdrop of an intensifying trade conflict initiated by the Trump administration’s 2018 tariffs on $300 billion worth of Chinese goods, China’s Export Control Law of 2020 consolidated various legislative measures into a single framework. This law aims to streamline and enhance the efficacy of export controls in response to evolving geopolitical dynamics and international trade practices.

According to a statement from the commerce ministry, these regulations are not targeted at any specific country or region but are a part of China’s commitment to responsibly manage its exports in line with global standards. Compliance with these new regulations will be mandatory for all relevant exports from July onwards.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com