https://www.theregister.co.uk/2019/08/08/japan_loosens_controls_over_seminconductor_exports_to_korea/ > Japan has eased controls on exports of key chip manufacturing materials to South Korea – the first relaxation of strict measures introduced last month in an escalating trade war. > Industry minister Hiroshige Seko said today that Japan had granted its first approval for the export of material used in three high-tech components for making chips and displays. The restrictions imposed in July over a row about Japan's wartime conduct. Essentially, tensions escalated earlier this month after Korea was removed from a special "fast track" white list that oiled exports from Japan to 27 lucky countries. It is the only country ever to have been taken off the list.