Big Take Asia All Eyes on Japan and China Tensions After Taiwan Remark
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Nov 25, 2025 Joining the discussion are James Mayger, a Senior Bloomberg reporter based in Beijing with expertise in Chinese politics, and Isabel Reynolds, Bloomberg's Tokyo bureau chief focusing on Japanese politics and economy. They delve into the tensions sparked by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's comments on Taiwan, examining Beijing's swift economic retaliation. The duo explores historical grievances, domestic reactions in Japan, and the potential risks for Japanese companies. They also discuss U.S. diplomatic efforts and the implications for future Japan-China relations.
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Japan States Taiwan Links To National Security
- Sanae Takaichi publicly linked Japan's security to Taiwan, marking a notable shift from past cautious rhetoric.
- James Mayger says this openly acknowledged contingency planning breaks previous Japanese reticence and tightens the diplomatic stakes.
Beijing Uses Economic Pressure And Rhetoric
- Beijing responded with stepped-up economic and diplomatic retaliation including flight cuts, travel warnings and import suspensions.
- Isabel Reynolds warns the bigger economic risk is prolonged consumer boycotts hitting major Japanese firms in China.
APEC Tweet Foreshadowed Clash
- Takaichi tweeted meeting the Taiwanese APEC representative, which rattled Beijing ahead of the parliamentary remark.
- James Mayger says that tweet showed Beijing was primed for provocations from her leadership.