Chinese tests of seawater near Fukushima nuclear plant show no impact on marine life
Analysis of samples collected after controversial radioactive discharges fuels hopes that Beijing could ease ban on Japanese seafood
China’s tests of seawater samples collected from near Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant have found no negative impact on marine species, increasing the chances that Beijing will eventually lift its ban on Japanese seafood imports.
Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said China would continue to conduct independent sampling and testing to improve international oversight of the discharge, signalling that more testing was needed before the seafood ban could be lifted.
“One single test does not say everything,” she said, citing experts’ comments.
“The first independent sampling is just one of the steps for Japan to implement its commitments,” Mao said.
“The resumption of aquatic product imports depends on a series of scientific data, including our follow-up independent sampling and monitoring, and whether Japan will take measures to guarantee the safety and quality of its aquatic products to China.”
