China has imposed sanctions on Japanese lawmaker Keiji Furuya, citing what it called his “collusion with Taiwan independence” forces, in the latest escalation of tensions between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan.

Sanctions Trigger Diplomatic Row

The move was announced on Monday, with China accusing Furuya of maintaining close ties with Taiwan’s leadership and supporting what it described as “separatist forces”.

Furuya, who heads a cross-party Japan-Taiwan lawmakers group, has visited Taiwan multiple times, most recently earlier this month, when he met President Lai Ching-te in Taipei.

China’s foreign ministry said these visits were carried out “in defiance of China’s strong opposition” and constituted interference in its internal affairs.

Japan Calls Move ‘Unacceptable’

Japan strongly criticised the sanctions, calling them “absolutely unacceptable” and demanding that Beijing retract the decision.

Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said China was using Furuya’s actions as a pretext to intimidate individuals with differing views.

China Reasserts Taiwan Position

Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes official contact between the island and foreign governments.

It argues that such engagements undermine the “One China” principle and its claims over Taiwan.

China’s foreign ministry said Furuya’s actions “seriously undermine China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity”.

Taiwan’s government, however, continues to reject Beijing’s sovereignty claims.

Furuya Dismisses Impact

Furuya, a member of Japan’s lower house, said the sanctions would have little effect on him personally, noting that he has not visited mainland China in decades and holds no assets there.

“Our parliamentary group is simply doing what comes naturally, to foster exchanges between countries that share common values,” he said.

Wider Tensions Rising

Relations between China and Japan have worsened in recent months.

Tensions escalated after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested last year that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt a military response from Japan.

China has previously imposed sanctions on other Japanese figures, including lawmakers and former military officials, over statements related to Taiwan.

(with inputs from Reuters)