As tensions in diplomatic relations rise again, China’s criticisms towards Japan are focusing on the treated wastewater released into the ocean from the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing government sources in its report, stated that restrictions on Japanese seafood are back on the agenda, with Beijing citing its demand for monitoring as the reason.
Although the Chinese administration has not yet made an official statement, according to press reports, it finds Tokyo’s water discharge decision “contrary to international responsibility.” In previous warnings from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was emphasized that this move meant using the Pacific Ocean like a “sewer.” +2Anadolu Agency+2
Experts from the two countries met in Dalian in March 2024 for an “experimental dialogue.” While the Japanese side argued that the water is safe, radiation monitoring is strict, and it is carried out under a planned discharge regime; the Chinese side reiterated that independent and comprehensive monitoring is essential. Kyodo News English
Chinese official agencies describe the Japanese water discharge as an act “contrary to international law.” Chinese analysts claim that the potential impacts of this process on both human health and the marine ecosystem are being ignored.
China’s reaction is not only at the diplomatic level; according to Tokyo, Beijing plans to re-implement import restrictions by tightening radioactivity controls on Japanese seafood.
The two countries had previously agreed in 2024 to establish a long-term monitoring mechanism under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Upon China’s request, this agreement also includes independent sampling and inter-laboratory comparison tests.
On the other hand, the increasing public reaction against Japan in China is also having repercussions at the economic level. While the Japanese fishing sector faces the fear of losing export market share again, demands are rising to establish a monitoring mechanism based on scientific cooperation to resolve the political tension.
