The United States has taken action to address China’s ban on Japanese seafood by purchasing bulk quantities of these products to supply its military stationed in Japan. This move comes after Tokyo released treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea, which led to China’s ban. In an interview with Reuters, U.S. ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel unveiled the initiative and suggested that Washington should explore additional measures to counter China’s “economic wars.”
China, which was previously the largest buyer of Japanese seafood, claims that its ban is motivated by concerns over food safety. However, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has confirmed the safety of the water release, and G7 trade ministers have called for the immediate repeal of bans on Japanese food.
Emanuel emphasized that the U.S. armed forces will establish a long-term contract with Japanese fisheries and cooperatives. He stated, “The best way we have proven in all the instances to kind of wear out China’s economic coercion is come to the aid and assistance of the targeted country or industry.”
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin responded to Emanuel’s comments by stating that diplomats should focus on promoting friendship between countries rather than smearing others or stirring up trouble.
The initial purchase under this seafood supply scheme involves a small quantity of scallops, weighing just under a metric ton. This is a fraction of the more than 100,000 tons of scallops exported from Japan to mainland China last year. However, Emanuel noted that the purchases will increase over time to include all types of seafood, which will be used to feed soldiers and sold in military base shops and restaurants.
Emanuel suggested that the U.S. should also consider its overall fish imports from both Japan and China. Furthermore, discussions are underway with Japanese authorities to redirect locally-caught scallops to U.S.-registered processors.
Regarding his stance on China, Emanuel, who previously served as White House chief of staff under President Barack Obama, rejected the label of being hawkish and instead identified as a “realist.” He emphasized the importance of honesty in establishing stability and understanding between nations. Emanuel also expressed concern over China’s economic challenges and its leadership’s decision to turn away from international systems, which he believes has negatively impacted Chinese youth.
Lastly, Emanuel highlighted his interest in observing China’s leadership’s response to the recent passing of former Premier Li Keqiang, a reformist who was marginalized by President Xi Jinping. He noted that China’s treatment of Li’s funeral and comments about him would provide insights into the country’s policies and direction.
In conclusion, the United States has initiated the bulk purchase of Japanese seafood to supply its military in Japan as a response to China’s ban on these products. U.S. ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel outlined this initiative and suggested additional measures to counter China’s economic actions.
