- Japan's department store sales decreased for the first time in five years in 2025.
- A Chinese travel advisory, prompted by the Prime Minister’s comments on Taiwan, significantly reduced tax-free sales.
- Chinese tourist numbers and spending plummeted by roughly 40% in December, and the negative impact is expected to persist.

A: Hey, did you hear about the department store sales?

B: No! What's up?

A: They went down for the first time in five years! Crazy, right?

B: Wow, really? What happened?

A: Apparently, China told its people not to travel to Japan.

B: Seriously? Why?

A: It’s because the Prime Minister talked about Taiwan. China got a little upset.

B: Oh, I see. So, fewer Chinese tourists?

A: Exactly! Tax-free sales dropped a lot too. Like, twelve percent!

B: That’s a big hit! Did it affect your favourite store?

A: I think so. December was especially bad. The number of Chinese visitors dropped by almost half!

B: That’s so sad for the shops!

A: Yeah. A guy from the Department Stores Association said it might last a while, even during the Lunar New Year.

B: Poor shop owners! Hopefully, things will get better soon.