Japan Expands Restrictions on Russia, Signaling G7 Solidarity With Asset Freezes And Crackdown On Third-Country Sanctions Evaders

Japan has ramped up its measures against Russia’s ongoing war on Ukraine by approving additional sanctions, which include freezing the assets of numerous individuals and organisations and banning exports to entities aiding Russia in evading sanctions. 

The Cabinet’s decision on Friday (10 January) underscores Japan's alignment with the Group of Seven's (G7) collective efforts to penalise Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi highlighted Japan’s role in the global initiative, stating, “It is Japan’s contribution as part of the international effort toward achieving global peace and resolving the problems surrounding Ukraine because of Russian invasion.”

The new sanctions extend asset freezes to 11 individuals, 29 organisations, and three Russian banks. They also target a North Korean and a Georgian bank alleged to have facilitated sanctions evasion. Furthermore, export bans have been imposed on 22 Russian military-related entities, including technology and machinery manufacturers, to curb their operational capabilities.

The sanctions include a list of 335 items banned from export to Russia, effective January 23. This list spans construction vehicle engines, motorised bicycles, communication devices, acoustic tools, and other mechanical equipment, as detailed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Japan has also widened its scope, imposing export restrictions on 31 non-Russian organisations accused of aiding Russia in circumventing sanctions. These include entities from Hong Kong, mainland China, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand, the UAE, and Kazakhstan.

Hayashi emphasised that these measures align with the G7’s broader strategy to hinder Russia’s access to restricted goods and strengthen its industrial capabilities. “Japan’s additional sanctions and export restrictions are in line with the G7 attempt to prevent Russia from evading sanctions with help from third countries,” he stated.

The sanctions come a month after Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reaffirmed Japan’s policy at a virtual G7 summit, further demonstrating the nation’s dedication to global peace.