In a potential shift in policy, Hong Kong’s environmental officials announced on Friday that they are exploring the possibility of lifting a ban on Japanese aquatic products, following Beijing’s decision to “gradually resume” seafood imports from Japan.
Since August 2022, the Hong Kong government has prohibited the importation of aquatic products from ten Japanese prefectures surrounding the Fukushima nuclear power plant, which has been discharging radioactive wastewater into the ocean. This ban encompasses all live, chilled, frozen, and dried sea products, as well as sea salt and seaweed.
One year later, the Environment and Ecology Bureau remains cautious. “The bureau will maintain contact with relevant authorities in the mainland and Japan for more information,” officials stated. They emphasized that any review of the current precautionary measures will be based on available scientific evidence and the assurance of food safety.
The bureau acknowledged recent announcements from China’s Foreign Ministry regarding the adjustment of measures and the gradual resumption of imports of Japanese seafood that meet regulatory standards. They noted that long-term international monitoring would play a crucial role in managing and mitigating risks associated with the discharge of contaminated water from Fukushima.
Despite Japan’s calls for the lifting of the ban, Hong Kong’s administration has remained steadfast in its position. Last month, Japanese Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Tetsushi Sakamoto criticized the restrictions as lacking scientific backing. However, the Hong Kong government has maintained that the “spillover effect” of ongoing discharges presents unprecedented risks.
As discussions unfold, the potential easing of the ban signals a significant development in the relationship between Hong Kong and Japan, as well as a broader dialogue on food safety and environmental responsibility in the region.
