China Announces Export Controls on Aerospace Tech, Other Items

China will place export controls starting June 1 on various military and dual-use equipment, software and technology, including items used in the aerospace and shipbuilding industries, along with “ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers,” the country’s commerce Ministry said May 30, according to an unofficial translation.

The restrictions specifically target certain tools, software and technology used to manufacture aerospace engines and parts; tools, molds, fixtures and other equipment used in “superplastic forming"; “oriented crystal or single crystal casting equipment for high temperature alloys” used to make engine parts; “untwisted ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers" with a minimum “breaking strength"; certain bulletproof vests; and more.

Exporters will need to apply for a license before shipping those items. That license must include a “technical description or test report” of the items, an end-user and end-use certification, information about the importer, and information about the “applicant’s legal representative, principal business manager and person handling the business.”

China said it will evaluate license applications “within the statutory time limit.” Exporters that fail to secure a license could face “administrative penalties in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations,” China said, and may face criminal liability.

The restrictions aren’t meant to target “any specific country or region,” a ministry spokesperson told reporters, according to an unofficial translation. The person said export controls are an “international practice” and they are designed to protect China’s national security and prevent weapon proliferation.