China Detains Japanese Citizens, Including Fuji Electric Staff, Over Rare Earth Export Controls

Multiple Japanese citizens, including executives of Japanese companies, have been detained in China on suspicion of violating regulations governing the export of dual-use materials such as rare earths. In May 2026, two employees of Japan's Fuji Electric Group were detained in China over alleged export violations involving motors with built-in rare earth magnets, and were subsequently arrested.

China strengthened its export controls on dual-use items to Japan in January 2026, covering seven categories of rare earths and rare metals. The Embassy of Japan in China issued a notice on July 7, reminding Japanese companies operating in China that Chinese authorities are continuously intensifying related reviews and enforcement efforts.