After a series of Chinese sanctions caused heavy losses to Japan: 60% of Japanese people believe that Takahashi Sanae's remarks should not have been made!

Recently, the Kyodo News released a new public opinion poll: nearly 60% (59.9%) of Japanese people believe that Takahashi Sanae's remarks have caused substantial negative impact on the country's economy. As one of the most important sources of tourists for Japan, Chinese tourists bring billions of yen in consumption every year to Japan.

However, since mid-October, a large number of travel plans were canceled. According to estimates from the Japan Tourism Agency and private think tanks, by the end of November, the direct economic loss caused by the decrease in Chinese tourists had already reached 1.79 trillion yen (about 12 billion US dollars). The data for December has not been fully counted yet — considering that the end of the year is the peak season for shopping and hot spring tourism in Japan, the actual loss is likely to far exceed this figure.

More importantly, this impact is not limited to the tourism sector. China simultaneously suspended imports of Japanese seafood products, which hit the heart of Japan's fishing industry. Data shows that China was once the largest export market for Japanese seafood products, accounting for 22% of its total exports. Many local fishery ports suddenly saw orders disappear, small processors went into production shutdowns, and related industries such as catering and logistics were also affected.

Finally, Takahashi Sanae's remarks have also sparked divisions in public opinion within Japan. Although 57% of respondents did not consider her comments as "insensitive," this very fact highlights the complexity of the issue: some people support a tough stance, but more people are beginning to realize that reckless provocation is now backfiring on the livelihood of the people. Some local chambers of commerce even jointly called on Takahashi Sanae to restore relations with China.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1852170879508491/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.