Japan Implements Ukraine-Related Trade Controls
Overview
In response to the international situation surrounding Ukraine, the Cabinet approved a partial amendment to the Export Trade Control Order to prohibit exports and other transfers of goods that contribute to strengthening Russia’s industrial base. The Order will be promulgated on October 9, 2026, and take effect on October 16; related ministerial orders and other measures will also take effect or apply on that date. Additions cover parts of 15 HS chapters, including minerals, chemicals, metals, machinery, and optical, measuring, and medical equipment. Details of the goods and other items are set out in related ministerial orders, public notices, and circulars.
Key points
- The Cabinet approved a partial amendment to the Export Trade Control Order.
- The Order will take effect on October 16, 2026.
- The additions cover goods and other items that contribute to strengthening the industrial base of the Russian Federation, and include parts of 15 HS chapters.
Overview
The source explains that, against the backdrop of the current international situation surrounding Ukraine, the measures reflect steps major countries decided to take so that Japan can contribute to international efforts for peace.
On October 2, 2026, the Cabinet agreed in principle to introduce, under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, a ban on exports and other transfers of goods that contribute to strengthening the industrial base of the Russian Federation.
Details
The Cabinet-approved Order implements the ban on exports and other transfers. Amendments to related ministerial orders and other measures specify the goods subject to regulation and establish operational procedures.
The additions cover parts of HS chapters 25, 26, 27, 28, 32, 39, 73, 74, 76, 81, 82, 83, 84, and 90. The categories include salt, sulfur, earths and stone; ores and slag; mineral fuels; inorganic chemicals; dyes and pigments; plastics; articles of base metals such as iron and steel, copper, and aluminum; tools; machinery; and optical, photographic, measuring, checking, precision, and medical instruments and their parts and accessories. Examples include chromium ore, benzene, chlorine, pigments based on titanium dioxide, gas turbines, and thermometers.
Details of the regulated goods and other items are set out in related ministerial orders, public notices, and circulars. For help determining whether an item is covered, readers are directed to check the laws and regulations posted on the Trade Control website.