Japan's sanctions

Japan's sanctions against Belarus.

Japan decided in 2022 to align with the United States, the European Union, and others in imposing measures against Belarus.

📅 Chronology of Japanese measures

• February–March 2022
  Initial restrictions on Belarusian officials and companies linked to the regime, shortly after the start of the war in Ukraine.

• May 2022
  Expansion of lists of individuals subject to asset freezes and entry bans into Japan.
  Tokyo also introduced a ban on exporting dual-use goods and technologies (civilian and military use) to Belarus.

• 2023
  Additional restrictions on strategic sectors: semiconductors, precision machinery, and telecommunications equipment.
  At the same time, some exports of goods that could enhance Minsk’s industrial and military capacity are blocked.

• 2024
  Tokyo updates its lists in coordination with G7 partners, adding new Belarusian companies and banks.
  Customs controls are strengthened to prevent evasion of sanctions through third-party countries.

• 2025
  The measures remain in force, with periodic updates by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Ministry of Finance.

🔎 What do Japanese sanctions entail

1. Asset freezes and travel bans

   • Government officials, military personnel, and entrepreneurs close to the Lukashenko regime.

   • Prohibition from entering Japan or accessing financial assets within the country.

2. Commercial and technological restrictions

   • Export stop to Belarus of semiconductors, electronic components, and high-precision machinery.

   • Ban on goods and dual-use technologies that could also be used for military purposes.

3. Financial sector

   • Freezing of assets belonging to Belarusian banks and limitations on yen transactions.

   • Prohibition for Japanese companies and citizens from conducting business with sanctioned entities.