Chinese customs authorities have intensified inspections on imported Japanese sake and food products, causing delays in clearance procedures. Trade sources indicate the measures began in November following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on a potential Taiwan contingency, appearing as an effort to heighten economic coercion against Japan. Japanese sake exports to China reached ¥11.67 billion in 2024, the highest by any country or region.
Reports from Beijing indicate that Chinese customs have tightened inspections on Japanese sake and food imports, resulting in clearance times nearly double the norm. At Tianjin port, random inspection rates have risen from the usual 5% to 100%, extending procedures to about a month. Similar delays have been observed at Shanghai port, potentially due to required additional documents or stalled inspection processes.
The delays started in November 2025, shortly after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi commented on a possible Taiwan contingency. Trade sources view this as an escalation of economic pressure on Japan amid rising tensions. According to Japanese Finance Ministry trade statistics, sake exports to China totaled ¥11.67 billion in 2024, making it the top destination by value.
The context involves ongoing frictions over Taiwan between Japan and China. No official statements from Beijing detail the measures, but sources warn of broader trade impacts. Such non-tariff barriers could strain bilateral economic ties further.
