Some Japanese imports to China delayed by more customs checks amid islands row

TOKYO – Japanese exporters are keeping a wary eye on China with customs inspections increasing in some Chinese cities as tensions over disputed islands remain elevated.

Yumiko Yoshimur, an official with the Japan External Trade Organization, said Monday that delays in shipments to China have been caused by an increased number of custom inspections in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Tianjin.

Kintetsu World Express, Japan’s second-biggest freight-forwarding company, has cautioned its customers about possible delays at Chinese customs, although it hasn’t received reports of any specific troubles.

Chinese attacked numerous Japanese-owned stores and factories in China last week after the Japanese government bought several disputed islands in the East China Sea from their Japanese owners.