Japanese industries are increasingly concerned about losing access to China's vast consumer market amid strained bilateral relations, according to Toshiyuki Yamamoto, vice-director of IMaSS Nagoya University. In a recent interview with CGTN, Yamamoto highlighted how both goods and services trade between the two nations have suffered following controversial remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding China's domestic affairs.
"The China market remains critical for Japan's economic stability," Yamamoto stated, emphasizing that sectors ranging from automotive to electronics face growing uncertainty. The comments come as businesses across Japan reassess their 2026 strategic plans, with many fearing prolonged trade disruptions could reshape Asia's economic landscape.
While neither government has released official 2025 trade data yet, analysts note declining Japanese exports to the Chinese mainland this year, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The situation presents challenges for investors seeking stability in Asia's $28 trillion combined economy.
