China maintains that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory.
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The Japanese outlet Kyodo News has reported that China will suspend imports of Japanese seafood due to a diplomatic dispute between the two countries over Taiwan.
In early November, China resumed purchasing Japanese marine products after lifting a ban imposed in August 2023 due to concerns about the treated water released from the damaged Fukushima nuclear complex.
In addition, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed her intention to promote a "strategic and mutually beneficial relationship" and to build "constructive and stable ties" between the two countries. However, Takaichi has on several occasions expressed her support for Taiwan.
As Kyodo News explains, Beijing considers the self-governed island a rebellious province that must be reunified with the mainland. Taiwan split from China in 1949 following a civil war.
China is the world's largest importer of cold-water shrimp, with around 60,000 tonnes per year, and therefore Norwegian shrimp have become a standout product in the Asian country's imports from Norway.
According to the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), in July 2025, Norway exported nearly 1,500 tons of shrimp worth almost NOK 81 million, representing a value increase of NOK 78 million compared to July 2024.
Furthermore, China overtook the U.S. in July as the destination market for Norwegian seafood exports. With 88% up, the Asian giant had the highest growth in value in July, but Poland, a regular processing market, remained the main destination.