Recent controversial remarks made by Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan have sparked criticism from within Japan. Professor Tadashi Horiguchi of Osaka Metropolitan University voiced concern that Takaichi's comments have had a negative impact on Japan's economy, particularly in the Kansai region, which maintains close economic and cultural ties with China.
According to Prof. Horiguchi, following Takaichi's public statements, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of Chinese tourists visiting Japan since November. "Osaka, as a city heavily reliant on the tourism industry, is already feeling the effects," he said. Sectors such as accommodation, transportation, and local specialty goods are likely to suffer if the situation continues.
Horiguchi emphasized that Chinese tourists are a key pillar supporting Kansai's economy. "Should this downward trend persist, the impact on the regional economy could be substantial," he warned.
Beyond tourism, the Kansai region, centered around Osaka, has long maintained robust trade relations with China, particularly in the fields of IT, electronics, and component manufacturing. Horiguchi explained that politically charged rhetoric could undermine business confidence and disrupt regional supply chains.
Another area of concern is higher education. Chinese students currently represent a significant demographic in Japanese universities, with over 100,000 students from China arriving annually, accounting for 30–40% of all international students in Japan. Horiguchi warned that if political tensions worsen, Chinese students may reconsider studying in Japan, potentially damaging bilateral cultural exchange and the long-term development of Japan-China relations.
"In the interest of regional peace and mutual prosperity," Horiguchi concluded, "I hope politicians like Takaichi can show greater respect for the friendly relationship between Japan and China. Doing so would ease tensions and contribute to stability in East Asia and beyond."
(Source: CCTV News)
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