Japan & China Ties Worsen After Takaichi's Taiwan Comments

Japan & China ties have deteriorated sharply after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said this month that a conflict involving Taiwan could qualify as a situation threatening Japan’s survival, a legal category that allows the use of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. China condemned the remarks and demanded a withdrawal of the statement.

Following the comments, China postponed a planned trilateral culture-ministers meeting with Japan and South Korea. Beijing also signalled it may impose a sweeping ban on Japanese seafood imports and paused discussions on lifting beef restrictions. Chinese authorities issued travel warnings to students in Japan, citing rising tensions.

Japan maintains that Takaichi’s remarks reflect its existing security policy and has urged Japanese nationals in China to stay alert. Tokyo said it regretted China’s reactions, stressing that communication channels should remain open.

• Japan–China ties worsen after PM Takaichi’s Taiwan comments trigger diplomatic backlash
• China cancels meetings, signals import bans and warns students amid rising tension
• Analysts say the sudden escalation shows how Taiwan issues can rapidly strain Japan–China relations

The strain has spread beyond diplomacy. Chinese cinemas have suspended screenings of Japanese films, and several Chinese airlines have begun offering refunds for tickets to Japan. Japanese travel companies report growing uncertainty among tourists after China discouraged non-essential travel.

The rift comes soon after Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met during the APEC Summit, where both pledged to stabilise relations. Analysts note that the sudden shift highlights how quickly bilateral ties can sour when Taiwan is involved.

Japan has been updating its defence strategies in recent years, citing regional security threats. China, which considers Taiwan a core interest, remains highly sensitive to any foreign statements that suggest support for Taiwan’s security.

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Officials and experts warn that prolonged tension could disrupt trade and cultural exchanges between two of Asia’s largest economies. Both sides face pressure to prevent the dispute from widening, but for now there is little sign of an immediate diplomatic reset.