China's move to tighten export controls on dual-use items to Japan is intended to curb attempts at "remilitarization" and nuclear ambitions, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday, urging Tokyo to reflect seriously on its actions and rectify its wrongdoings.

"The measures China has taken toward Japan are attributable to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks and actions, a fact the Japanese side is well aware of," He Yongqian, a spokeswoman for the ministry, said at a news conference.

He made the remarks after Takaichi recently accused China of unfairly singling out Japan with tighter export controls on dual-use items and urged Beijing to revoke the measures.

The commerce official said export controls are a common international practice aimed at safeguarding world peace and fulfilling international non-proliferation obligations, adding that China, as a responsible major country, has consistently honored its commitments in this regard.

He stressed that instead of dealing with the real source of the issue, the Japanese side has resorted to accusations of so-called economic coercion against China—claims that twist the facts and, combined with Tokyo's rhetoric and actions, have heightened concerns about the revival of militarism.

"We once again urge the Japanese side to engage in serious self-reflection, correct its mistakes, and avoid continuing down a misguided path," He added.