Key Facts
• July 11: Japan’s Moriyama met China’s He Lifeng in Osaka for 30 minutes.
• China announced the activation of an agreement to resume Japanese beef imports.
• Japanese beef exports to China halted in 2001 due to BSE concerns.
• Agreement marks a 24-year gap since Japan last exported beef to China.
• Japan requested a new loan of giant pandas from China during the talks.
• China also resumed Japanese seafood imports after a two-year suspension.
• U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent to visit Expo next week for trade discussions.
• Japan’s Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa expected to lead U.S. negotiations.
• Analysts suggest China aims to improve ties with Japan amid U.S. trade tensions.
• Japan urged to balance relations with both China and the U.S. strategically.
Summary
Japan and China held significant talks at the Osaka Expo site, focusing on resuming Japanese beef exports to China after a 24-year halt due to BSE concerns. China announced the activation of a necessary agreement, signaling progress in trade relations. Additionally, Japan requested a new loan of giant pandas, and China resumed Japanese seafood imports after a two-year suspension. Analysts view these moves as China’s effort to strengthen ties with Japan amidst strained U.S.-China relations. Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent is set to visit the Expo next week for trade discussions, with Japan’s Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa expected to lead negotiations. Experts emphasize Japan’s need to maintain a balanced approach between China and the U.S. to safeguard its national interests.
