China Emphasizes Ongoing Monitoring of Fukushima Water

On January 23, 2025, China reiterated the importance of continuous monitoring of seawater around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, following an independent assessment of water samples collected in October 2024. The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced that no abnormalities were detected in terms of radioactive substances, including tritium, cesium-137, and strontium-90, in the samples taken near the troubled facility.

Despite the findings, the Chinese government maintains its opposition to Japan's discharge of treated water into the ocean, a process that commenced in August 2023. Spokeswoman Mao Ning emphasized that while independent monitoring is a necessary step, it alone does not suffice for China to consider lifting the comprehensive ban on Japanese seafood imports.

Mao stated that the resumption of these imports hinges on a collection of scientific data, including results from ongoing independent monitoring and the assurances from Japan regarding the safety and quality of its seafood products. The Chinese assessment followed Japan and China's agreement in September 2024 to gradually resume seafood imports, contingent upon China's involvement in monitoring efforts.

The Chinese media outlet, Global Times, reported that the data collected will be compiled and made public by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is collaborating with China, South Korea, and Switzerland to monitor the marine environment in the region.

The Chinese government had enacted a blanket ban on Japanese seafood following the initial release of treated water, reflecting deep-seated concerns over the safety of aquatic products from Japan. Experts cited by Global Times stated that Japan's decision to begin discharging the treated water lacked legitimacy and called for a scientifically cautious approach to the matter.

As the situation continues to develop, the focus remains on international cooperation and transparency in monitoring the environmental impact of the treated water discharge, with both China and Japan under scrutiny from global observers.