Chongqing - Takada Mari, the Consul-General of Japan in Chongqing, shared her insights on the Chinese government work report submitted Tuesday to the national legislature. Focusing on the consulate's activities and strategic initiatives, the Consul-General provided a comprehensive outlook on Sino-Japanese relations and the ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in various sectors.

Takada Mari, Consul-General of Japan in Chongqing. (Photo/Yue Xingchen)

The report highlighted the commitment to making it easier for foreign nationals to work, study, and travel in China. In January of this year, the National Immigration Administration introduced five new measures to facilitate foreign nationals' entry into China. When asked about her thoughts on these measures, Consul-General Takada Mari expressed her views.

"Facilitating the entry of foreign nationals is crucial for promoting international cooperation, especially in Sino-Japanese relations. Last year, due to visa policies and reduced flights, personnel exchanges were still recovering. Particularly in the Japanese business community, visits for commercial purposes were quite challenging," said Takada Mari.

She acknowledged China's efforts to ease entry and exit policies. Still, she emphasized the need for a fundamental solution, advocating for the swift restoration of the pre-pandemic visa-free policy for Japanese citizens. Additionally, she stressed the importance of deepening China's reform and opening up policies to create an environment that attracts foreign enterprises, including those from Japan, for business.

Regarding the consulate's activities in 2023, she highlighted the noteworthy investments by Japanese companies in Chongqing, spanning manufacturing, dining, retail, and services sectors.

Panasonic has established a thermal insulation material factory in the manufacturing sector, while HOYA has initiated the construction of a semiconductor mask manufacturing facility. Expanding beyond manufacturing, notable dining, retail, and service newcomers include Nitori and Sushiro.

Consul-General Takada Mari underscored the consulate's strategic focus on promoting "Japanese food and beverages," fostering "tourism to Japan," and disseminating the "charms of various Japanese regions." 

This past year, the consulate organized multiple promotional events, including monthly tourism and local product showcases at Aoyama Square Chongqing, China's No.1 Store. Additionally, active participation in significant events like the Chongqing International Cultural Industry Expo, the Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade, and the China Hot Spring Expo showcased the consulate's commitment to highlighting Japan's attractions through exhibitions and stage performances.

These initiatives align with the consulate's dedication to enhancing cultural exchange and economic collaboration, strengthening ties between Chongqing and Japan.

To further enhance cultural exchanges, the Consul-General announced the upcoming "Chongqing Japanese Brand Exhibition" on March 9 and 10 at Shin Kong Place, featuring around 40 Japanese food and beverage companies and local municipalities. 

Consul-General Takada Mari concluded, "The consulate will remain dedicated to fostering close cooperation with relevant Chinese government departments, contributing to the prosperity and mutual understanding between our two nations."