Troubled Waters - China's Import Ban Amidst Fukushima Woes

Troubled Waters - China's Import Ban Amidst Fukushima Woes

China's recent goods trade report reveals a significant development: zero imports of fish and shellfish from Japan in November. The reason behind this drastic drop is the Chinese government's decision not to renew import permission for Japanese "nishikigoi" carp, a key component of freshwater ornamental fish imports.

Nishikigoi carp held a notable share, amounting to 330,000 dollars in October. This decline is part of China's broader ban on Japanese fishery products since late August, a protest against the release of tritium-containing treated wastewater from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. However, the ban is thought to exclude nishikigoi.

China's overall imports from Japan in November remained nearly unchanged from the previous year, standing at 14.1 billion dollars. In contrast, exports experienced an 8 percent decline, reaching 13.3 billion dollars.

Looking ahead, Japan plans to initiate the fourth round of dumping nuclear-contaminated water into the sea in late February next year, with an anticipated discharge of 7,800 tonnes. Despite opposition from neighboring countries like China and South Korea, Japan began releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean in August this year, continuing with subsequent releases in October and November, each lasting around 17 days.

This situation underscores the complex dynamics surrounding environmental concerns, diplomatic tensions, and international trade. As the world observes Japan's actions and their consequences, questions arise about the broader implications for global environmental policies and relations between nations. 

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q1: Why did China's imports of fish and shellfish from Japan drop to zero in November?
  • A: The Chinese government did not renew import permission for Japanese "nishikigoi" carp, a significant component of freshwater ornamental fish imports.
• Q2: What led to the ban on Japanese fishery products by China since late August?
  • A: The ban is in protest against the release of tritium-containing treated wastewater from the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
• Q3: What is the significance of nishikigoi in Japan's fishery product exports?
  • A: Nishikigoi carp make up a substantial portion of Japan's freshwater ornamental fish exports, totaling 330,000 dollars in October.
• Q4: How has Japan's total imports from China been affected in November?
  • A: Japan's total imports from China remained almost unchanged from a year earlier at 14.1 billion dollars, while exports fell about 8 percent to 13.3 billion dollars.
• Q5: When will Japan start the fourth round of dumping nuclear-contaminated water into the sea?
  • A: Japan is set to start the fourth round in late February next year, with an expected discharge of 7,800 tonnes.

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