Tokyo: Tensions between historical rivals Japan and China have taken an unexpected turn, transitioning from territorial disputes to a surprising obstacle in the tranquil realm of spas, museums, and gardens – the world of koi fish. This unexpected diplomatic rift deepens the ongoing discord over Japan’s release of treated but radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the sea.
Koi, formally known as Nishikigoi in Japan, are vibrantly coloured and prized carp considered “swimming jewels.” Symbolizing good luck in life and business, these fish often grace the ponds of affluent and influential families in Japan. In recent years, the popularity of koi has surged across Asia, with Japan’s koi exports doubling over the past decade, reaching 6.3 billion yen ($43 million), and China emerging as the top importer, followed by the United States and Indonesia.
A koi herpes virus outbreak in Japan during the 2000s prompted the country to implement a compulsory quarantine of 7-10 days for all exports, including those to China, ensuring the fish are disease-free. China, which had export deals with 15 growers providing quarantine, allowed many contracts to lapse over the years. The last remaining pre-export quarantine deal, expiring on October 30, was not renewed by China, effectively halting the import of koi from Japan. Chinese officials have not offered any explanation for this abrupt stoppage.
Despite global concerns about the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, Chinese authorities banned Japanese seafood immediately after the event. However, koi, being freshwater ornamental fish and not typically consumed, were initially allowed into China for two months post the wastewater discharge. Japanese officials, including Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Minister Ichiro Miyashita, assert that the Fukushima wastewater release is unlikely to be the cause of the koi export suspension, emphasizing the cultural significance of Nishikigoi.
Top Japanese officials argue that Tokyo submitted the necessary documents for koi export renewals well before the deadline, pledging to continue diplomatic efforts to resolve the deadlock. Minister Miyashita condemned China’s measures as scientifically baseless, calling for a withdrawal of practices lacking rationality and distorting trade. Beyond the koi dispute, Japan and China continue to grapple with longstanding territorial tensions over the East China Sea islands, adding to broader geopolitical friction in the region.
As the koi-related diplomatic saga unfolds, both nations navigate a multifaceted relationship encompassing cultural, economic, and security dimensions, with the added complexity of the ongoing Fukushima aftermath.
Source: AP News
