China has introduced new export controls on tunnel boring machines (TBMs), a move analysts suggest is strategically aimed at India. The Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs announced on October 19 that export controls would apply to shield TBMs, key components, and remanufacturing and repair technologies. The regulations also include wet shotcrete equipment and walking excavators for high-altitude construction. The new rules will take effect on November 18.
While China has not banned all exports, it has implemented reporting and export certification procedures for general overseas civilian projects. Exports to sensitive countries and regions, particularly those with territorial and security disputes with China, will require separate approval. Additionally, transferring controlled Chinese materials to sensitive end-users abroad is restricted.
Following the announcement, Indian media expressed sharp concerns. The Economic Times reported that China's export controls on TBMs could affect India's subway, high-speed rail, and border tunnel construction projects. PSU Watch noted that even European products manufactured in China could be impacted by these controls, stating, "India now faces a situation where it must rely on other countries' approvals to advance infrastructure projects." Indian outlets have raised alarms about potential delays in strategic infrastructure development along the border.
India is constructing roads and tunnels in the Himalayan highlands bordering China, which serve as critical infrastructure for troop and military supply movement. Notably, China has included equipment capable of operating in environments above 3,000 meters and at temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius in its controls.
Tunnel boring machines are not just heavy equipment; they require designs tailored to geological conditions, precise manufacturing techniques, and reliable core components, making independent development challenging in a short timeframe. To replace Chinese equipment, India may need to seek alternative suppliers from Europe and elsewhere, which could increase costs, delivery times, and maintenance burdens. Delays in supplying necessary equipment for ongoing projects could disrupt timelines.
China and India have a long-standing conflict over border issues. By constructing roads and tunnels in the high-altitude areas adjacent to China, India enhances its capacity to move troops and equipment in emergencies. From China's perspective, it cannot afford to see its construction equipment and industrial technology potentially used to bolster a security threat.
China has established a strong competitive position in the global tunnel boring machine market. Its experience in domesticating equipment previously reliant on Western and Japanese manufacturers has provided China not only with a technological edge but also with leverage to control supply chains. The export controls on tunnel boring machines illustrate how China's industrial technology is extending its influence beyond economic competitiveness to geopolitical power.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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