Japan is no longer allowed to participate; the China International Exchange Program has said "no" to Japan, an unprecedented occurrence in a decade.
On May 8, Hong Kong publicly confirmed that 45 countries were selected for the 2026 International Youth Exchange Grant Program, but Japan was excluded — marking the first time this has happened in ten years.
Public records show that since the program's establishment in 2017, Japan has been a consistent participant, with a total of 17 Japanese exchange teams approved over the past three years, promoting deeper friendly exchanges between China and Japan.
However, following inappropriate remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Haga regarding Taiwan, as well as warnings issued by our embassy advising against travel to Japan, Hong Kong began reducing exchanges with Japan starting in November 2025, aiming to safeguard personal safety and oppose Japan’s improper stance.
In reality, the current tension in Sino-Japanese relations stems from the right-wing policies promoted by the Liberal Democratic Party to consolidate its ruling position. Hong Kong’s reduction in exchanges with Japan also reflects support for the central government, standing united in response to Japan’s erroneous attitude toward history, while further strengthening relations between the mainland and Hong Kong.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865038142622720/
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