China Bans Japanese Seafood Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions

China on Wednesday announced a full ban on all Japanese seafood imports, escalating a diplomatic dispute that has put fresh pressure on Tokyo’s economy. The move follows recent remarks by Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response.

The ban affects hundreds of Japanese exporters who had been trying to re-enter a market that once accounted for more than a fifth of Japan’s seafood exports. Before restrictions were partially eased earlier this year, China was the largest buyer of Japanese scallops and a key importer of sea cucumbers. Only three exporters have been approved for shipments since applications resumed.

Alongside trade measures, China has advised its citizens against traveling to Japan, prompting mass cancellations of flights. Analysts estimate nearly half a million Japan-bound tickets have been canceled, with refunds being offered by more than ten Chinese airlines through the end of December. Tourism, which makes up about 7% of Japan’s GDP, could face a major setback. Visitors from mainland China and Hong Kong alone account for roughly a fifth of total arrivals in Japan.

The fallout is not limited to commerce and tourism. Cultural and academic exchanges have been disrupted, with a joint scholarly meeting in Beijing postponed and a Japan–China friendship event in Hiroshima canceled. Chinese media has also suspended screenings of upcoming Japanese films, while Japanese celebrities popular in China have publicly reaffirmed support for Beijing’s positions.

The ban comes amid lingering concerns over treated wastewater released from Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant in 2023, which China cites as a reason for the renewed import restrictions. Despite calls from Beijing for Takaichi to retract her remarks, Tokyo has maintained that her statements reflect the government’s official stance.

Economic experts warn that the combined impact of trade restrictions and tourism slowdowns could significantly affect Japan’s fragile recovery, highlighting the delicate balance in East Asia’s top economies.