Taiwan cuts off machine tool exports to Russia
Photo: Taiwan stopped supplying machine tools that can be used for military purposes (Getty Images)
Taiwan has announced a full suspension of machine tool exports to the Russian Federation, specifically those that could be utilized by military enterprises, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Export control regulations were tightened following a series of media investigations. Journalists, referencing foreign think tanks, reported that Taiwan ranks among the top five suppliers of machine tools to Russia.
“Given the dual-use nature of these machine tools and their potential for military application by Russia, the Ministry of Economic Affairs has taken several steps, including adding 77 machine tool codes to the external economic activity commodity nomenclature,” the ministry stated.
In addition, the fine for the initial violation of sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus has been raised to $31,100.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs also mentioned conducting “active outreach” with manufacturers, urging them to comply with laws and control the final flow of products.
According to the ministry, these measures are already showing results, with Taiwan’s machine tool exports to Russia reportedly “dropping to zero.”
Background
Yesterday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the global community to strengthen sanctions against Russia. He cited the increase in Russian Shahed drone attacks, which contain components from companies in China, Europe, and the United States. President Zelenskyy noted a similar situation with Russian missiles.
