South Korea and China are taking further action in response to the suspected arms deal between North Korea and Russia by tightening export controls on Russia and Belarus. Last week, South Korea added 682 items to the list of items banned from shipping to these countries. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy stated that they will strengthen the implementation of export controls and focus on monitoring the export of 'common high priority items,' including chips that can be applied to drones. The total number of items on the controlled products list is now 1,159.
In addition to tightening export controls, the South Korean government is investigating Daesung International Trading, a South Korea-based company that was recently added to the U.S. Commerce Department's 'entity list' for export restrictions due to its alleged connection to Russia. The investigation is part of the government's efforts to prevent any potential misuse of export items.
China has also announced export controls on various military-related materials and tools, including equipment used to make aerospace parts and engines, gas turbines, and key components for bulletproof vests. The restrictions will take effect on July 1 and aim to safeguard national security and fulfill international obligations. The move comes amid rising tensions with the United States and increasing pressure from the West to stop aiding Russia's war with Ukraine. The top importers of Chinese aerospace products and restricted goods related to gas turbines are the US, Vietnam, and Singapore. The restrictions also cover ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fiber, molds for spacesuit visors, and other items. Exporters will need to submit details of their contacts and technical descriptions or test reports about export items. The restrictions are the first of their kind since last September's curbs on the export of drones with military applications.
These measures by South Korea and China reflect their commitment to preventing the transfer of military-related technology and equipment to Russia and Belarus, as they take the suspected arms deal between North Korea and Russia seriously.