(Preview) Fukushima Outrage Continues; Secretary Raimondo in China; Perfect Timing for a Huawei Launch; TikTok Lobbyists Take a Bow
Aug 30, 2023
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Bill Bishop, author of Sinocism, discusses the controversy surrounding the release of contaminated water from Fukushima. They explore Chinese sentiment towards Japan, safety concerns with aquatic products, and the potential boycott of Japanese goods. The chapter also delves into the implications for Japanese businesses in China and the rise of virtual protests.
The controversy over the release of Fukushima water has strained the relationship between Japan and China, impacting trade and tourism.
The differing viewpoints on the safety of the Fukushima water have led to anti-Japanese sentiment in China and challenges for the Chinese government in managing the situation.
Deep dives
Controversy Over Fukushima Water Release
The ongoing controversy over the release of Fukushima water has led to tensions between Japan and China. Since the 2011 nuclear accident, Tokyo Electric Power Company has been cooling damaged reactors with water, resulting in contaminated water that is stored in tanks. The Japanese government claims that the water is safe, with tritium being the only remaining radioactive element. However, environmental group Greenpeace argues that the water still contains significant radioactivity. China has supported Greenpeace's stance and recently banned all imports of Japanese seafood, sparking boycotts and protests within China. The release of the water has raised concerns about the safety of Chinese fishermen and has impacted tourism and trade between Japan and China.
Dynamics at Play in the Controversy
The controversy surrounding the Fukushima water release involves differing viewpoints on the safety of the water. Japanese authorities and some international organizations believe that the water, filtered of radioactive elements except for tritium, poses minimal risks. Chinese authorities, along with Greenpeace, argue that the water contains other harmful substances and have intensified their campaign against Japan's efforts to release it. The Chinese government has actively promoted anti-Japanese sentiment and encouraged boycotts of Japanese products. This has resulted in panic buying of salt, concerns about contaminated fishery products, and cancellations of trips to Japan. The Chinese government is now facing the challenge of managing the situation and potentially walking back their campaign.
Implications and Potential Resolution
The controversy over the Fukushima water release is creating difficulties in the Japan-China relationship. While physical protests have not been permitted, Chinese citizens have resorted to virtual harassment of Japanese businesses and organizations. The Chinese government's efforts to discredit Japan and block the water release have not succeeded. However, resolving the situation poses a challenge for China as they face the embarrassment of their unsuccessful campaign. It is unlikely that Japan will halt the water release, so the Chinese government may need to gradually de-escalate the situation and potentially adjust their tactics. The impact on Japanese businesses in China and the long-term implications for the relationship between the two countries remain uncertain.