Japan's Delegation to China Hits Snag on Seafood Trade

BEIJING, Jan 26 (News On Japan) - The delegation from the "Japan-China Economic Association," currently visiting China, met with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao on Thursday afternoon, requesting the lifting of China's import ban on seafood, but failed to gain any commitment from the Chinese side.

The delegation is visiting China for the first time in four years, and following their morning meeting with Prime Minister Li Qiang, they exchanged views with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, who is responsible for trade. During the meeting, Mr. Kobayashi, the head of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called for the lifting of China's import ban on Japanese seafood and the reinstatement of visa exemptions for short stays for Japanese citizens as before the pandemic. Furthermore, Mr. Tokura, the chairman of Keidanren (Japan Business Federation), argued that it is necessary to dispel concerns held by Japanese companies, such as those related to the revised "Anti-Espionage Law," in order to expand investment.

According to the Japan-China Economic Association, although Minister Wang made statements such as "There is no change in the direction of opening up to the outside world. High-quality development is indispensable," there was no mention of specific measures, and the discussions remained at an impasse.

by Brian Dentry

Source: NHK

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