Beijing — China has suspended the release of at least two Japanese films, heightening a diplomatic standoff between the two countries following incendiary comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan.
State broadcaster CCTV, citing consultations with film distributors, described the decision as “prudent,” reflecting deteriorating public sentiment in China. The titles affected include the animated feature Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! Scorching Kasukabe Dancers and Cells at Work!, a film adaptation of the popular manga.
The move comes on the heels of Takaichi’s remarks to Japanese lawmakers, in which she suggested that a Chinese military attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan’s survival and justify a military response. Beijing has strongly condemned her language, calling it interference in China’s internal affairs.
Beyond cultural retaliation, the diplomatic fallout has deepened: China has advised its citizens against traveling to Japan, triggering a steep drop in Japanese tourism and retail stock prices. Economically, the cinema ban adds another layer of mounting pressure as the two nations navigate a volatile period in bilateral relations.