India, April 21 -- Japan has lifted most of its restrictions on weapons exports, enabling the country to sell arms overseas for the first time since World War II, in a move aimed at strengthening its defense industrial base, drawing sharp concern from China.

The Cabinet of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday approved changes to defense export rules that will expand market opportunities for companies in the arms sector, Bloomberg reported.

"These decisions are intended to safeguard Japan's security and further contribute to the peace and stability of the region and the international community amidst rapidly evolving changes in the security environment," Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said during a press briefing after announc...