Two Japanese Films Delayed in China Amid Taiwan Tensions

BEIJING, China — The releases of two highly anticipated Japanese films have been postponed in China due to escalating tensions over Taiwan. According to Chinese state media, the films impacted are Cells at Work! and Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers.

This decision comes as diplomatic relations between China and Japan deteriorate further. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently suggested that Japan might intervene militarily if China attempted to take control of Taiwan. This remark has drawn sharp criticism and concern from Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

Chinese media reported that, although tickets are still available for the popular Japanese anime Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, sales have declined recently amid the rising conflict. The state-controlled broadcaster CCTV highlighted that audience dissatisfaction stemming from Takaichi’s comments contributed to this downturn.

A spokesperson for film distributors stated that the decision to postpone the releases was made after reassessing the overall market outlook for Japanese films in China and public sentiment. “Distributors are being prudent,” CCTV reported, indicating that they aim to respect audience preferences.

Analysts suggest that such moves are part of a broader strategy by Beijing to exert influence over Japanese businesses. Naoise McDonagh, an expert in economic coercion, explained that China often targets non-essential trade to apply pressure on Japan, signaling that there will be consequences for actions against its interests.

The diplomatic spat has prompted China to issue travel advisories for its citizens planning to visit Japan, warning of safety risks. Meanwhile, Japan has reciprocated with a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise caution in China.

During a regular media briefing, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated that advisories are reflective of the ongoing tensions. He also expressed that Tokyo remains open to dialogue with China, despite the tensions surrounding the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa.

The situation highlights the fragility of cultural exchanges as geopolitical tensions over Taiwan escalate. While Beijing insists on reunifying Taiwan with the mainland, many Taiwanese prefer maintaining the current status quo.

As the dispute continues, industry stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, particularly its impact on tourism and cultural collaborations between Japan and China.