The Japanese government discussed new strategies on Friday to cushion the fisheries sector, which continues to reel from China’s extended ban on Japanese seafood imports.
“We will uphold our commitment without any alteration to take full responsibility for this situation,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said during a high-level meeting with key ministers.
Kishida affirmed that this stance would remain until Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (Tepco) completes its planned discharge of tritium-laced treated water from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean.
The prime minister emphasized the government’s pledge to keep the fisheries industry afloat amid these challenges. “Our goal is to ensure that stakeholders can continue their livelihoods. We will implement all necessary support measures with precision, and additional aid will follow in an economic stimulus package expected this autumn,” Kishida added.
China imposed a sweeping ban on Japanese seafood in response to Japan’s decision to release treated water from the Fukushima plant starting August last year.
Despite multiple diplomatic efforts urging China to reverse the ban, Tokyo’s appeals have been ignored. Japanese officials argue that the restrictions lack scientific justification.
The impact has been severe: Japan’s seafood exports to China plunged by 29.9% in 2023 compared to the previous year, amounting to just ¥61 billion ($420 million). Although Japan has sought alternative export markets, these efforts have not fully compensated for the decline in Chinese demand.
Last Saturday, Kishida visited Fukushima Prefecture—where the nuclear facility is located—and held discussions with fisheries representatives to reaffirm the government’s support one year after the treated water release began.
Tomoaki Kobayakawa, President of Tepco, also attended Friday’s meeting and echoed the company’s long-term commitment to the process. “We will carry out our responsibilities to the very last drop,” Kobayakawa told reporters following the discussions.
The government remains focused on stabilizing the fisheries sector, with a promise to roll out economic aid and relief programs across the country.
