Japan Asks Countries to Reduce Ag Import Restrictions Stemming From Nuclear Plant Damage

Japan implored countries to drop restrictions on Japanese food imports from Fukushima, saying the restrictions are hurting its farmers. Several countries, including South Korea, have imposed measures to guard against possible radiation contamination from food imported from Fukushima, which was the site of a nuclear power plant that was damaged by a tsunami in 2011.

While some import restrictions “have been completely abolished and some relaxation has been made,” restrictions still remain, Japan’s foreign minister said Nov. 1, according to an unofficial translation. “Japanese food is safe,” the minister said, adding that it wants to “send out correct information to countries where regulations still remain, and to lead to the elimination and relaxation of regulations through exchanges.” The measures have been a “big pain for farmers” and others in the agricultural industry, the minister said.

Macau, a special administrative region of China, announced plans to ease import restrictions on Japanese food products in October (see 1910290024).