China to Resume Japanese Seafood Imports After Two Year Ban

China has agreed to lift its two-year-long ban on Japanese seafood imports, a decision linked to Japan’s release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

The breakthrough was announced on May 30, with Japan's Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirming the deal during a meeting in Beijing. Koizumi stated that exports would resume once China completes the necessary procedures.

The agreement hinges on China’s participation in IAEA monitoring of water samples and Japan’s commitment to register seafood processing facilities with Chinese authorities. Additionally, all seafood must undergo testing and certification to ensure it is free from radioactive substances, particularly cesium-137.

China is expected to officially announce the reopening of seafood trade for areas outside Fukushima soon, marking a significant step forward for both nations' trade relations.