China Suspends Aquatic Products Imports From Japan

China will suspend all imports of aquatic products from Japan starting Aug. 24 in response to Japan's release of nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean (see 2308220022), the General Administration of Customs announced, according to an unofficial translation. The customs administration said the move, which also covers edible aquatic animals, is meant to shield the health of Chinese consumers and ensure the safety of food imports.

A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce dubbed Japan's release of the "Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water" an "extremely selfish and irresponsible act" that stands in violation of the "global public interest." The decision makes Japan a "saboteur of the ecological system and polluter of the global marine environment," the spokesperson said, adding that the Chinese government "will take all measures necessary to safeguard food safety and the health of our people."

Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said this week it will work to "ensure safety and disseminate highly transparent information," according to an unofficial translation.