Japan will restrict the overseas sale of chip manufacturing equipment, joining the United States and the Netherlands in curbing the export of key technology to China.

The country announced Friday it would tighten exports of 23 types of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

The rules will take effect in July, according to Japan’s minister of economy, trade and industry, Yasutoshi Nishimura.

The ministry said it would require stricter procedures to export to about 160 destinations such as China, while 42 territories — including the United States, South Korea and Taiwan — are recognized by Japan as having adequate export controls in place.

All exports to countries not formally recognized will now require approval from the Japanese trade ministry, it added.

At a press conference, Nishimura said the new measures were aimed at preventing the equipment from being diverted for military use.

“We will fulfill our responsibilities in the international community as a technology-owning country and contribute to maintaining international peace and security,” he told reporters.

Source: CNN