China has announced new export controls on tunnel boring machines (TBMs), essential equipment used in metro rail, highway and underground infrastructure projects. The restrictions, announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce on October 19, 2026, will come into effect on November 18.
Under the new measures, exporters will be required to obtain licences in accordance with China’s export control laws and regulations governing dual-use items. The move is part of broader changes to the country’s export control framework, which also includes adjustments to restrictions on drone-related products and dredging equipment.
The announcement is significant for India, which continues to depend on imported tunnel boring machinery for major infrastructure developments. China remains one of the key global suppliers of this specialised equipment.
According to UN Comtrade data cited by Reuters, China exported approximately $793 million worth of self-propelled coal or rock cutters and tunnelling machinery in 2025, highlighting its importance in the global supply chain.
The new licensing requirements could introduce additional compliance procedures for equipment exporters and importers. Their impact on individual infrastructure projects will depend on licensing decisions, equipment availability and procurement timelines.
For India, the development also underscores the importance of strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities for critical construction equipment. Increasing local production could help reduce dependence on overseas suppliers and improve supply-chain resilience as the country expands its metro networks, highways and other major infrastructure projects.
The announcement comes amid wider efforts by countries to regulate the export of technologies considered to have both civilian and potential military applications.
