US Military in Japan Buys Japanese Seafood to Counter Chinese Ban
In response to China's ban on Japanese seafood imports after the Fukushima nuclear plant released treated water, the US military in Japan has initiated a bulk purchase of seafood from Japan. The move comes as the US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, described China's ban as a part of their "economic wars."
China, which was the largest buyer of Japanese seafood, justified its ban by citing safety concerns despite the International Atomic Energy Agency vouching for the safety of the water. Last year, Japan exported over 100,000 tons of scallops to China. However, the first purchase under the US scheme comprises just under a metric ton of scallops, a fraction of the previous exports.
Mr. Emanuel stated that this seafood purchase will mark the beginning of a long-term contract between the US armed forces and Japanese fisheries and co-ops. The seafood will not only be used to feed military personnel but will also be available in shops and restaurants on military bases in Japan.
G7 trade ministers have also called for the "immediate repeal" of bans on Japanese food, highlighting the need to build free, fair, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationships. These developments come despite Japan's assertions of the safety of treated water releases, which were approved by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog.
While China responded to Mr. Emanuel's comments by emphasising the diplomatic role of promoting friendship between countries rather than "smearing" other nations, the US remains committed to strengthening its economic relationships and taking a realistic stance on China's economic challenges and leadership decisions.
