A spontaneous remark by Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has sparked the country’s most serious diplomatic clash with China in years, though it was not intended as a hardline statement. During her first parliamentary questioning, Takaichi suggested Japan might respond militarily if China attacked Taiwan, a comment officials say was unscripted. This has provoked Chinese backlash, including travel boycotts, import restrictions on Japanese seafood, and cancellations of meetings and cultural events.

Despite Beijing’s displeasure, Japanese officials note that retracting her comment is impossible, though opinion polls indicate her popularity at home remains strong. A government spokesperson emphasized that Japan’s official stance and willingness for dialogue remain unchanged. Previously, Japanese leaders avoided publicly discussing Taiwan to maintain strategic ambiguity alongside the U.S. “Takaichi inadvertently boxed herself in,” said Jeremy Chan of Eurasia Group, warning that relations between the two economies could face a prolonged chill throughout her tenure. A planned G20 meeting between Takaichi and China’s Premier Li Qiang has already been canceled.

Analysts compare the current rift to the 2012 dispute over nationalized islands, which led to major anti-Japan protests and years of frozen diplomatic relations. Economic repercussions could be severe: China’s travel boycott alone could cost Japan over $14 billion annually, and broader trade restrictions could hit Japan’s automotive and electronics industries.

Recent meetings in Beijing have underscored the tension, with symbolic gestures by Chinese officials signaling defiance. Chinese state media highlighted Liu Jinsong’s attire and posture as deliberate signals, signaling that Beijing wants the world to witness Japan’s diplomatic isolation. Analysts suggest there is currently no clear path to ease tensions, and some Chinese commentary has become increasingly hostile toward Takaichi.