Boring war: China cuts tunnelling machine exports, India digs in

The Straits Times · Debarshi Dasgupta · 2026-11-06 10:15 UTC

China export controls on tunnel boring machines could delay Indian projects and spur efforts to build them domestically. Read more at straitstimes.com.

- China will restrict exports of tunnel boring machines from Nov 18 to “sensitive countries” which China has territorial disputes, including India.

- India has responded by redoubling its efforts to build TBMs in India and be self-reliant.

- Experts say the limits may delay some projects at first, but could ultimately strengthen India's indigenous capabilities to develop such advanced machines.

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