China Imposes New Export Regulations to Protect National Security and Interests in Aerospace Industry

In a move aimed at protecting national security and interests, as well as complying with international obligations on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, China has announced new regulations that restrict the export of aviation and space equipment. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce made the announcement on May 30, stating that a license will be required for the export of these items.

The restrictions apply to items such as aircraft and aerospace engines, structural parts, equipment, software, and technology related to engine manufacturing. Additionally, molds and equipment made from aluminum, titanium or alloys used in producing superplastic materials are also subject to export restrictions. Superplastic materials are crucial in manufacturing processes that require complex shaping without compromising durability, especially in the aerospace industry.

Furthermore, the export controls also apply to technologies used in the development, manufacture, and use of equipment such as design drawings, process specifications, processing procedures and simulation data. This move by China follows similar restrictions by the United States to protect national security interests.

China’s exports of engine parts and aircraft continue to rely on foreign suppliers despite its own development of jet engines. The overall impact of these new export restrictions from China remains uncertain given its status as the world’s second-largest economy. However it is part of a broader trend among countries seeking to protect critical technologies and equipment vital to their national security.