China commerce ministry announces export controls for tunnel boring machines

China's ‌commerce ministry said ​on Monday it would set export controls ‌on tunnel boring machines, a key piece of equipment for construction.

China exported about $793 million in self-propelled ‌coal or rock cutters and tunnelling machinery ‌in 2025, according to UN Comtrade data. It is among the key suppliers of tunnelling and other boring ⁠equipment ​used in ⁠metro rail and highway construction. China's commerce ministry said export ⁠operators would need to apply for a license ​in accordance with provisions of export control law ⁠and regulations on the export control of dual-use items.

The ⁠restrictions ​go into effect on November 18. It also said it would adjust export ⁠control measures for drone-related items and dredgers, part of ⁠updates ⁠to the country's dual-use items exports list.