THE WHAT? Japan has announced that it will block the export of luxury goods to Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine, according to a report published by Reuters.

THE DETAILS The export control list, effective from April 5, covers cosmetics, jewellery, watches and liquor priced above ¥40,000, among other high-end products.

The new ban will take the total blacklisted goods to 310 items.

THE WHY? A ministry official told Reuters in a media briefing, “In cooperation with the US and EU, Japan joins the sanction against Russian oligarchs and the ruling class.”