China Launches Anti-Dumping Probe into Japanese Semiconductor Chemical Imports

China on Wednesday announced an anti-dumping investigation into imports of dichlorosilane from Japan, a key chemical used in the production of semiconductors. The move comes a day after China banned the export of certain goods to Japan that could have military applications.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said that between 2022 and 2024, imports of dichlorosilane from Japan increased overall, while prices fell by a total of 31 percent. The ministry stated that this pricing trend had harmed Chinese domestic industries, accusing Japanese exporters of dumping the product in the Chinese market.

Japan is one of the world’s leading suppliers of dichlorosilane, and the investigation comes amid growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Relations have worsened since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in November that Japan could respond militarily if Taiwan were attacked. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has said it would use force if necessary to bring it under its control.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Takaichi’s comments on Taiwan interfered in China’s internal affairs and amounted to a threat of military force.

On Tuesday, China also restricted exports to Japan of so-called “dual-use” items that could be used for both civilian and military purposes. Although no specific products were named, the decision raised concerns in Japan that China could limit supplies of rare earth minerals, which are essential for industries ranging from consumer electronics to defense.

China is the world’s largest supplier of rare earth elements.

In response, Masaaki Kanai, Japan’s top foreign ministry official for Asia-Pacific affairs, strongly protested the measures and called for their withdrawal. He said the export bans go against international norms and described them as unacceptable and deeply regrettable.