Foreign media: Japanese tourism and retail industries are in danger

According to the latest release by the Japan Tourism Agency (JNTO), the number of foreign visitors to Japan in September 2025 is expected to reach 3.266 million, an increase of 13.7% compared to the same period last year, with the number of foreign visitors to Japan exceeding 3 million for the first time in September. Looking at the number of tourists from various regions, China accounted for 775,500 visits, an increase of 18.9%, ranking first. On April 16, the Japan Tourism Agency released the report on the consumption trends of foreign visitors to Japan in the first quarter of 2025.

From January to March 2025, the total tourism expenditure by foreign visitors to Japan is expected to be 2 trillion 272 billion yen (an increase of 28.4% compared to the same period in 2024). According to nationality/region, China accounted for 544.3 billion yen (24.0% of the total), ranking first.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated on the 14th that there was "no need to withdraw" regarding Takahashi's statement that "the situation in Taiwan could constitute a 'crisis of existence'."

He pointed out: "The explanation about the Peace and Security Law and the 'crisis of existence' is clear, and it does not violate international law. This is a bill that has been fully debated and passed by the Diet, so there is no need to withdraw it, which is natural."

It is expected that the confrontation between Japan and China in various aspects may become long-term.

On the 15th, the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan, Toshio Kimura, emphasized that "this is inconsistent with Japan's understanding." He said, "Because there are differences in positions between the two sides, multi-level communication between Japan and China is more important." He also stated, "We have made a diplomatic request to China and strongly asked for an appropriate response." Kimura made these remarks during his visit to Niigata City when answering questions from reporters.

On the 15th, the head of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party, Taro Kobayashi, also told reporters in Kitakami City, Akita Prefecture, "We should calmly view this issue. We will continue to dialogue and strive to build a constructive and stable relationship between Japan and China." He also expressed an intention to confirm the reasons for China's call for avoiding travel to Japan.

Source: rfi

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1848859316404423/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author himself