This includes extending a ban on imports from 10 Japanese
prefectures, including Fukushima, while also deciding to fully screen all
shipments from other regions, instead of just spot checking, amid concerns of
residual nuclear contamination.
The General Administration of Customs said the plan to
discharge the water from the 2011 nuclear disaster failed to fully reflect
expert opinions and that it will take all necessary measures to ensure the
safety of Chinese consumers.
China first placed a ban on food imports from the
10 Japanese prefectures 12 years ago following the nuclear meltdowns and
releases of radioactive materials at the Fukushima nuclear power plant in
northeastern Japan in March 2011.
Food from other parts of Japan, especially edible aquatic
products, will also receive “strictly 100 per cent” screening of their
certification documents and be inspected.
“Chinese customs will continue to strengthen the detection
and monitoring of radioactive substances, ensure the safety of Japanese food
exported to China, and strictly prevent the import of risky products,” the
customs agency said on Friday.
It will also maintain a high level of vigilance and take
absolute responsibility to domestic consumers as the principle.
On Tuesday, the International Atomic Energy Agency approved
Japan’s plan to release the water, saying it met international standards.
But the China Atomic Energy Authority responded to the report
by saying over 70% of nuclear-contaminated water failed to meet discharge
limits after going through a filtration system and that it requires
further treatment.
“The discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Japan into
the sea has become the focus of global attention,” Chinese customs added.
“It has also caused Chinese consumers to worry about the
safety of food imported from Japan.”
