Days after China decided to forbid the use of semiconductors produced by US-based chipmaker Micron, Japan has decided to prohibit the sale of chip-making technologies to that country.
China is pleading with Japan to lift the ban on the sale of chip-making technology, referring to transgressions of international and commercial laws.
Beijing's denunciation is the most recent episode in the continuing chip war involving the United States and China, and that has brought about actions from both countries to hinder one other's ability to produce semiconductors.
The Japanese government's decision to implement a ban upon chip exports comes several days after China barred the use of semiconductors made by US-based chipmaker - Micron, claiming a cybersecurity risk.
The United States Commerce Department disagreed with the choice, claiming the limitations are unfounded in reality.
A prohibition on the export of chip-making technologies to China was expanded by the US in January after persuading Japan and The Netherlands to become part of it.
Analysts claim that Washington's decision to reach a settlement with the two nations was a major one since some of the biggest companies that produce machinery for the semiconductor industry have their headquarters in these countries.
Chip exports to China were initially subject to US limitations in 2015; these limits were then again extended in 2021 and 2022. December saw the implementation of the most recent limitations.
In response to China's decision to forbid the use of Micron chips, United States lawmakers suggested last week that Washington should consider placing trade restrictions on Changxin Memory Technologies, a manufacturer of Chinese memory chips.
Despite the latter's criticism of the export limitations, China has reportedly said it is willing to cooperate with Japan in important economic and trade areas, according to a Reuters article.
Also according to reports, the US and Beijing have discussed lifting the restrictions on Micron.