TOKYO (AP) — China has detained two Japanese citizens on suspicion of smuggling items that are prohibited from import or export, as confirmed by a Japanese official on Wednesday. The case reportedly pertains to rare earths, essential materials that are primarily controlled by Beijing.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minoru Kihara, stated during a press conference in Tokyo that Japanese consular offices in Shenyang and Dalian were informed by Chinese customs authorities about the detainment of the two Japanese nationals. One was taken into custody on May 18, with the second detained shortly after, a week later, in connection with the same alleged infraction.
Kihara provided limited information about the detainees, citing their privacy and the ongoing investigation, but reassured that both individuals were in good health. In a separate statement, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun acknowledged the detainment and underscored that the Iranian side should educate its citizens and businesses in China about adhering to local laws and regulations.
According to Kyodo News agency, the detained Japanese nationals are employees of a significant Japanese machinery manufacturer, with one working at the company’s Chinese subsidiary. The report suggests that their alleged activities involving the smuggling of materials related to rare earths may have violated Chinese laws.
This incident follows a series of tensions between Japan and China. Just five months prior to these detentions, Beijing imposed a ban on exporting dual-use goods to Japan, which can potentially be utilized for military purposes. Although China asserts that this export control does not impact commercial goods, trade data has indicated a noticeable decline in the export of rare earths magnets to Japan.
Relations between Japan and China have been under strain for several months, particularly after comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. His remarks suggested that any Chinese aggression towards Taiwan, which Beijing considers its territory, could warrant a military response from Japan. This stance represents a shift from the previous approach of strategic ambiguity maintained by past Japanese leaders regarding the Taiwan issue.
Additionally, the detainment of the two Japanese nationals is not the first occasion of diplomatic strain between the two nations. A separate incident involved a Japanese man who had been imprisoned in China since March 2023, ultimately sentenced last year to three and a half years on espionage charges.
In summary, the recent detentions of the two Japanese citizens underscore the tense relationship between Japan and China, exacerbated by issues surrounding rare earths, trade regulations, and diplomatic remarks regarding Taiwan.
