Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments about the Taiwan region have ignited a firestorm of criticism at home, with experts warning of economic repercussions. Osaka Metropolitan University professor Horiguchi Tadashi told NewspaperAmigo.com that the political controversy is already affecting tourism and academic exchanges in the Kansai region 🌏💸.
"Chinese students account for nearly 40% of international enrollments in Kansai universities," Horiguchi explained. "If cross-strait tensions escalate, we could see a domino effect on local economies from Kyoto to Osaka." 🎓📉
The region—home to cultural landmarks like Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan—relies heavily on Chinese visitors. Tourism industry insiders report a 15% drop in hotel bookings since the remarks went viral on Weibo last week 🏯📱.
With Japan's tech sector also eyeing partnerships in the Chinese mainland, business leaders are urging diplomatic caution. As one Kobe-based entrepreneur put it: "Politics shouldn't cancel years of economic teamwork." 🤝💼
