Japanese Nationals in China Face Growing Espionage Fears

Recent events have heightened anxieties among Japanese nationals working in China. Following a court decision in Beijing, where an employee of Astellas Pharma Inc. was sentenced to prison on espionage charges, concerns have grown. This incident is part of a pattern of Japanese citizens facing imprisonment in China on similar allegations.

The charges fall under the umbrella of "national security," a priority for the Chinese government. Due to this classification, trials related to espionage are not open to the public. This lack of transparency means that individuals can be sentenced without the public knowing the specifics of the accusations. This uncertainty is a major factor in the reluctance of Japanese individuals to accept postings in China.

The Japanese ambassador to China expressed regret over the guilty verdict, noting that the Astellas Pharma employee appeared composed during the court session. The employee is considering an appeal. Another Japanese corporate employee, who was in Beijing when the Astellas Pharma worker was detained, highlighted the significant impact of the incident.

Experts suggest that Japanese employees should exercise caution in China. The sentence, while relatively short, underscores the intensifying crackdown by the Chinese government. The statutory penalties for espionage in China range from three years to life imprisonment. Some analysts believe the sentence may have been intentionally lenient to avoid damaging relations between China and Japan.

In response, Japanese companies are taking steps to protect their employees in China. These measures include training sessions, stricter information management, and advising employees to avoid bringing personal devices into the country. Despite these efforts, concerns persist. The chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed hope that Chinese authorities would enforce laws in a way that alleviates the anxieties of Japanese expatriates.