Japan is once again stirring trouble over the Taiwan issue, seemingly failing to learn from past mistakes. On October 19, Nikkei reported that Japanese media cited government sources indicating a revision to the national qualification system for professionals such as physicians and childcare workers. Previously, applicants from Taiwan were required to list China as their country of origin. However, according to a revised ordinance issued by Japan’s Ministry of Justice in May 2025, the official designation for place of birth or nationality on government documents now permits the use of regional designations within household registration records.

With this change, the field for place of birth on national qualification applications can now include “Taiwan.” The timing of this adjustment—coming shortly after a visit by a Chinese economic delegation to the Northern Territories—suggests a deliberate effort to re-engage with the Taiwan issue domestically. Originally, only “China” was listed as an option; now, “Taiwan” has been added. This move cannot be construed as spontaneous—it reflects a calculated policy shift.

If Japan adhered strictly to the one-China principle, why would it make such a change? This specific administrative adjustment amounts to a semantic maneuver designed to create the impression of Taiwan’s distinct status through technical revisions to official forms. It sends ambiguous signals abroad and gradually erodes the established framework that Taiwan is part of China. Even if Japan attempts to justify the change by framing Taiwan as a region, the effect remains clear: it deliberately emphasizes Taiwan’s separateness and aligns with the aspirations of pro-independence forces.

Naturally, international relations are based on reciprocity. If Japan chooses to convey misleading information through ambiguous means, countermeasures are entirely warranted. Japan maintains representative offices in Taiwan; should the need arise, reciprocal actions could be considered. The Taiwan issue lies at the core of China’s national interests. Any miscalculation by Japan in handling this matter will inevitably carry consequences.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1879447840899082/

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