Seafood Trade and Diplomatic Engagement: Japan’s Foreign Minister Visits China

Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya is set to meet his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Wednesday, with seafood trade expected to top the agenda. This visit marks Iwaya's first to China since assuming office in October and comes at a critical juncture in the two nations' relations.

China, previously Japan’s largest export market for aquatic products, imposed a ban on Japanese seafood imports following Tokyo’s release of treated radioactive wastewater into the ocean. However, Japan’s Nikkei newspaper reported that China is considering lifting the ban, provided Tokyo meets certain conditions.

China has emphasized the need for robust assurances from Japan regarding long-term international monitoring of the treated water. Beijing also seeks provisions for independent sampling and monitoring by stakeholders, including China.  With sufficient safeguards in place, China’s foreign ministry indicated it might “adjust relevant measures” and gradually restore imports that meet safety and regulatory standards.

Iwaya’s visit follows an agreement between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Chinese President Xi Jinping to foster a mutually beneficial strategic relationship. During their recent meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Lima, Peru, Xi highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “Both nations should be partners, not threats.”

Despite close economic ties, longstanding security and territorial disputes, as well as historical sensitivities, continue to complicate bilateral relations. Xi described the current period as a “critical stage of improvement and development” for Sino-Japanese ties. In addition to trade, Iwaya is expected to address Japan’s concerns over China’s military activities near its borders and discuss regional issues, including North Korea’s growing security alignment with Russia.

Japan has expressed “grave concern” over reports of North Korea providing advanced military technology and combat personnel to Russia. Recent assessments indicate Pyongyang has already deployed around 12,000 troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, with further contributions potentially on the horizon.

On less contentious matters, China may urge Japan to reciprocate recent visa policy relaxations. Beijing recently restored and expanded its visa-free policy for Japanese citizens, allowing stays of up to 30 days until the end of 2025, a move aimed at enhancing people-to-people exchanges. While Japan has yet to announce a reciprocal policy, China has expressed hope that Tokyo will take steps to improve bilateral exchanges.  This one-day visit underscores the delicate balance of collaboration and contention between the two nations as they navigate complex trade, security, and diplomatic dynamics.