China to Gradually Resume Importing Japanese Marine Products
In a recent announcement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that China will gradually lift its ban on importing Japanese marine products. This ban was imposed after Japan began discharging treated water from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in August 2023.
The governments of Japan and China have reached an agreement regarding the lifting of this ban. As part of the agreement, China will participate in discharge monitoring activities conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and will only accept marine products that meet the organization’s standards.
To further address concerns, Japan and the IAEA have agreed to expand their monitoring activities. This includes testing more samples of seawater and fish. China has been advocating for an expansion of sampling areas, which has been a point of contention between the two countries.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had a phone meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to discuss these matters. While there were disagreements initially, both countries have engaged in ongoing discussions involving experts to find common ground.
The proposed expansion of monitoring activities aligns with Japan’s focus on maintaining a robust monitoring system led by the IAEA. It also takes into consideration China’s concerns. One potential measure is allowing institutions from third-party countries, including China, to analyze samples and participate in monitoring activities.
Currently, the IAEA inspects treated water for safety before it is released into the ocean. The new measures may involve increasing sampling areas and involving institutions from various countries in monitoring abnormalities in radioactive substances levels through seawater and sand samples taken near the nuclear power plant.
This development marks progress towards resolving trade restrictions between Japan and China while addressing safety concerns related to marine products originating from areas affected by nuclear incidents like Fukushima.
