Key Facts
• December 18, 2024: Japan and Taiwan signed a memorandum on information sharing.
• The agreement aims to prevent foreign agents from entering Japan during a Taiwan crisis.
• Approximately 21,700 Japanese nationals reside in Taiwan as of October 2024.
• The memorandum focuses on screening foreign nationals entering Japan from Taiwan.
• Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs anticipates mass evacuations in case of a Taiwan crisis.
• Concerns include potential entry of Chinese agents disguised as Taiwanese citizens.
• The agreement was signed by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and Taiwan-Japan Relations Association.
• The memorandum’s content remains classified and is not publicly disclosed.
• Japan has similar agreements with Australia and New Zealand but not for crisis evacuations.
• China is reportedly preparing for a potential Taiwan invasion by 2027.
Summary
Japan and Taiwan have signed a rare memorandum to share information on foreign nationals entering Japan from Taiwan, particularly during a potential Taiwan crisis. The agreement, signed in December 2024, aims to prevent foreign agents, including potential Chinese operatives, from exploiting evacuation-related chaos to enter Japan. With over 21,700 Japanese nationals residing in Taiwan, the memorandum enhances screening processes and strengthens Japan’s crisis response. While the agreement’s details remain undisclosed, it reflects Japan’s growing collaboration with Taiwan and its alignment with the United States to address regional security concerns. This move comes amid China’s ongoing military exercises and potential plans for a Taiwan invasion by 2027.
