China Eases Ban on Japanese Seafood Imports, Excludes Fukushima
- June 30, 2025
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China has announced a partial lifting of its ban on seafood imports from Japan, a move that marks a significant step in resolving a longstanding dispute over Japan’s management of nuclear wastewater. The decision allows seafood imports from most Japanese regions, excluding 10 prefectures, notably Fukushima and Tokyo, which remain under restriction. This development follows years of tension between the two nations, primarily centered around environmental and safety concerns related to the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The ban had been a point of contention since its implementation, affecting trade relations and economic interactions between China and Japan. By resuming imports from the majority of Japanese regions, China aims to balance its economic interests with public health and safety concerns. The conditional resumption reflects China’s cautious approach to ensuring food safety while also acknowledging the importance of bilateral trade with Japan. This decision is expected to have significant implications for both countries’ seafood industries, potentially boosting Japan’s export market while providing Chinese consumers with greater access to diverse seafood products. However, the continued ban on imports from Fukushima and Tokyo underscores ongoing apprehensions about the safety of products from areas directly affected by the nuclear incident. As both nations navigate this complex issue, the partial lifting of the ban may pave the way for further diplomatic engagement and cooperation in addressing environmental challenges and enhancing food safety standards.