China imposes export controls on tunnel boring machines, adjusts dredger-related measures

China has decided to impose export controls on items including tunnel boring machines and optimize export control measures on dredger-related items, with the rules set to take effect on November 18, 2026, the Ministry of Commerce said on Monday.

The moves were taken in accordance with relevant laws and regulations to safeguard China's national security and interests, the ministry said in two separate announcements.

The items included in these measures have a clear dual-use nature and can be applied for both military and civilian purposes, said a spokesperson for the ministry, who added that China's lawful implementation of export control measures conforms to international practices.

As a responsible major country, China's control measures and optimization of them demonstrate its consistent position of firmly safeguarding world peace and regional stability, the spokesperson said.

The Chinese government is willing to work with all countries to maintain the stability and smooth flow of global industrial and supply chains, the spokesperson said. The country will review export permit applications in accordance with laws and regulations, and applications that meet requirements will be approved.

China is willing to communicate and engage in dialogue with relevant parties on export control policies and practices to jointly promote and facilitate compliant trade, the spokesperson added.