DIPLOMATIC SPAT OVER TAIWAN LEADS TO TRADE RESTRICTIONS AFFECTING SEAFOOD INDUSTRY
Multiple sources confirm that China has reinstated its ban on seafood imports from Japan, including key exports like shrimp and fish. The move comes amid a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two Asian powers, triggered by recent comments by Japan’s Prime Minister regarding Taiwan.
China informed Japan on November 18, 2025, of its decision to prohibit all imports of Japanese seafood products. This ban came just weeks after China had partially lifted restrictions imposed in 2023 related to Japan’s release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant.
The renewed ban is linked to heightened geopolitical tension following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a Japanese military response. Chinese authorities have demanded a retraction and cautioned of further punitive measures if Japan does not comply.
Japan’s seafood industry, vital for both domestic consumption and export, faces significant setbacks due to this commercial disruption, which follows years of declining exports after previous bans and trade disputes.
Data indicates that in the first nine months of 2025, Japanese seafood exports to China were already below $500,000, showing limited recovery since the partial reopening earlier in the year.
Besides seafood, China’s actions have also affected Japanese cultural imports, including the halting of film releases, reflecting a broader strategy of economic and diplomatic pressure.
Japanese government officials emphasize that remarks by Prime Minister Takaichi align with national security policies, while urging dialogue to ease tensions and restore stable trade relations.
The situation underscores the fragility of Sino-Japanese relations, shaped by geopolitical dynamics and sensitive issues surrounding Taiwan and nuclear safety.
