‘Tunnel boring machine export curbs should not strain India-China ties’: Global Times

The Global Times, the mouthpiece of the Chinese Communist Party, has stated that a single tunnel boring machine (TBM) should not become a source of tension between China and India. The editorial notes that applications to export TBMs for legitimate civilian projects would be approved. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that India would develop its own TBMs if China restricts their exports, emphasizing that India is not a country that surrenders.

The Indian government has also announced plans to manufacture key components domestically, including rare earth magnets and technology related to the solar sector, in response to potential restrictions. Export restrictions on TBMs will come into effect on November 18. TBMs are crucial for several infrastructure projects, including the 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor.

China's Ministry of Commerce has announced that exporters will need to apply for licences under export control laws. The editorial also highlights that China has never viewed India's development as a threat and that the two countries have the potential for greater cooperation and market demand.