Core Viewpoint - Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) updated the "final user list" on September 29, adding multiple Chinese companies while removing two previously listed companies [1][2]. Group 1: Japan's Export Control Measures - Japan has been tightening export controls on high-end semiconductor manufacturing equipment since 2023, with further restrictions planned for 2025, using the "final user list" as a tool to prevent technology from being used for military purposes [2][3]. - The initial expansion of the list in February included 42 Chinese entities, bringing the total number of affected Chinese companies, research institutions, and organizations to approximately 110, primarily in critical technology sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing [3]. Group 2: China's Response - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce expressed strong opposition to Japan's actions, stating that the listing of Chinese companies lacks factual basis and harms the interests of both countries' enterprises [2][4]. - China welcomed the removal of two companies from the list, viewing it as aligned with mutual interests, and expressed a willingness to enhance communication with Japan to facilitate the removal of more Chinese companies from the list [4].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has initiated anti-discrimination and anti-dumping investigations against U.S. chip trade policies, citing concerns over discrimination against Chinese companies and the impact of U.S. restrictions on China's semiconductor industry [2][4]. Group 1: Investigations Initiated - The first investigation will examine whether U.S. chip trade policies discriminate against Chinese companies [4]. - The second investigation targets alleged dumping of U.S. analog chips used in devices such as hearing aids, Wi-Fi routers, and temperature sensors [4]. - The Ministry of Commerce stated that the investigations are in response to applications from domestic industries and comply with Chinese laws and WTO rules [4]. Group 2: Impact of U.S. Policies - The U.S. has implemented a series of restrictions on China regarding chips, including trade discrimination investigations and export controls [4][5]. - The Ministry claims that these "protectionist" practices aim to suppress China's development in advanced computing chips and AI technologies [4]. - Preliminary evidence from applicants indicates that from 2022 to 2024, imports of the investigated products from the U.S. increased by 37%, while import prices decreased by 52%, negatively affecting domestic sales prices and operations [4]. Group 3: Types of Chips Investigated - General interface chips are designed to provide diverse interface types for efficient data transmission and signal conversion [5]. - Gate driver chips enhance the output of gate control signals and manage the conduction and cutoff of power semiconductor devices [5].

Group 1 - China has filed a lawsuit against Canada at the World Trade Organization (WTO) due to allegations of dumping canola oil, imposing a deposit of up to 75.8% on imports from Canada starting August 14 [1] - Canadian Agriculture Minister expressed disappointment over China's decision but acknowledged efforts to engage in dialogue with China to resolve trade disputes [3] - Canada has not taken substantial corrective measures in the four days following China's announcement, prompting further action from China [3] Group 2 - Canada imposed discriminatory tariffs on Chinese steel products as a means to address trade tensions with the United States, which has placed significant tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum [3][5] - The Canadian government previously announced a 100% tariff on electric vehicles from China and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from China to appease the U.S. [5] - The new Canadian Prime Minister, Carney, has taken a firm stance against U.S. pressure, but recent tariffs on products containing "Chinese steel components" indicate ongoing trade discrimination [5] Group 3 - China is no longer willing to tolerate Canada's previous approach of externalizing internal issues by targeting China, warning that further actions harming Chinese interests will lead to consequences [7] - The expectation is for Canada to recognize the situation and work towards a positive development in bilateral relations with China [7]