Key Facts
• June 29, 2025: China ends two-year ban on Japanese seafood imports.
• Imports from 37 prefectures, including Hokkaido, can resume after re-registration.
• Fukushima and 9 other prefectures remain under import restrictions.
• 2022: Japanese seafood exports to China valued at $500 million; 2024: dropped to $100,000.
• Chinese customs require radiation inspection certificates for imports.
• May 2025: Japan and China agreed on procedures to resume imports.
• Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasizes strict monitoring for food safety.
• Analysts predict slow recovery due to China’s frugality and competition.
• Japanese Agriculture Minister calls the resumption a “significant milestone.”
Summary
China has lifted its two-year ban on Japanese seafood imports, effective June 29, 2025, following an agreement between the two governments in May. While imports from 37 prefectures can resume after re-registration, restrictions remain for Fukushima and nine other prefectures. Chinese authorities require radiation inspection certificates for all imports, maintaining strict food safety measures. The ban, initially imposed in August 2023, caused Japanese seafood exports to China to plummet from $500 million in 2022 to just $100,000 in 2024. Analysts caution that recovery will be gradual due to China’s frugality and competitive market. Japan’s Agriculture Minister hailed the resumption as a major milestone, though challenges persist in rebuilding trust and market share.
