Author: gqSbgCfmna

BEIJING – Japanese jazz musician Yoshio Suzuki and his band were in the midst of a sound check for some long-awaited performances in Beijing when the venue was visited by plain-clothes police on Thursday afternoon.

“After less than one minute, the venue owner came to me and said the police told him all concerts with Japanese people are cancelled – and there is no discussion,” said Christian Petersen-Clausen, a Norwegian concert promoter and documentary filmmaker who has lived in China for 13 years.

About a dozen concerts with Japanese musicians in major Chinese cities have been abruptly cancelled this week as diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Tokyo escalate.

The trigger was remarks this month by new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi who said a Chinese attack on Taiwan threatening Japan’s survival could trigger a military response from Tokyo.

China, which regards the democratically governed island as its own, was incensed and has said Takaichi will face consequences. Its response began with economic measures such as a boycott on travel to Japan and a ban on imports of Japanese seafood, but it has since increasingly spilt over to the realm of cultural events.

Suzuki, an 80-year-old renowned jazz bassist and his quintet had undergone a months-long review process to obtain China performance visas.

“They were absolutely excited to come to China,” according to Petersen-Clausen, adding the band was “crushed” at the news.

On Thursday and Friday, music venues across China were warned by authorities that concerts with Japanese musicians for the remainder of 2025 may be cancelled, he said.

The venues were also told not to submit fresh applications for Japanese performers’ gigs next year and concert organisers are now banned from sending promotional texts to fans about upcoming gigs of Japanese artists.

China’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China well versed in cultural boycotts

Other abrupt cancellations include a Beijing concert by Japanese singer KOKIA on Wednesday evening, according to dozens of complaints from angry fans on social media.

“Everyone queued until the start time, but they still wouldn’t let us in. Afterwards, KOKIA’s team came out to tell us the band is ready, but the venue won’t let them perform,” read one post on the platform RedNote.

Videos circulating on X on Thursday showed a large crowd of angry fans outside the venue chanting: “Give us our money back!”

Japanese rapper KID FRESINO’s China tour was indefinitely postponed on Friday, according to a social media post by his Chinese tour promoter.

China has a history of using cultural boycotts against countries as a form of economic coercion during diplomatic disputes.

No major K-pop bands have been allowed to perform in the country since the 2016 THAAD missile dispute between the two neighbours. K-dramas and other Korean cultural products remain under an unofficial ban on Chinese platforms.

Beijing has been battling to boost spending on services this year amid a prolonged economic slowdown. Cancelling these concerts will be a further drag on growth, said Petersen-Clausen. He noted the knock-on effects of fans’ cancelled flights and hotel bookings and reduced shifts for Chinese support staff.

Live music gigs are also an important outlet for many young Chinese people facing work or life pressure during the economic downturn, and many young music fans who attend concerts pay little attention to international politics, he added.

“We do see this kind of (anti-Japanese) sentiment sometimes online … but we don’t see it at these concerts,” he said.

“I’ve never, ever heard anybody bring politics into these moments.”

KAMISATO, Japan – At an eel restaurant near Tokyo, four friends sit down to eat a Japanese delicacy now the subject of a heated international debate as its numbers decline.

The eel, hugely popular across Japan, is also endangered and will be discussed at a key global forum that regulates trade of threatened wildlife, starting in Uzbekistan on Monday.

“It’s a luxury dish that we eat to treat ourselves or to celebrate an occasion,” Yukiko Takahashi, a 52-year-old saleswoman told AFP as she tucked into her food at Hiranuma Suisan.

“Today, we friends came here to lift our spirits.”

Japan is strongly opposed to a proposal by the European Union, Panama and Honduras to list all 17 species of eels worldwide under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites), which restricts trade of protected wildlife.

Up to 85% of global eel consumption takes place in East Asia, particularly Japan, which imported almost three-quarters of the 61,000 tonnes consumed there last year.

Eel populations are falling worldwide, scientists say, largely due to factors linked to human activity such as the pollution of waterways, destruction of wetlands, hydroelectric dams, and fishing.

Estimating population sizes remains difficult because of the mysterious life cycle of the snake-like fish.

The Japanese eel, a common species in East Asia, reproduces west of the Mariana Islands, 2,000 to 3,000 kilometres from the Japanese coast.

Its larvae develop into glass eels (juveniles) as they approach the coast, then live in freshwater for 5 to 15 years before making the reverse journey.

The Japanese eel, along with the American variety, is listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.

The European eel is considered critically endangered.

A luxury dish

Eels, called “unagi” in Japan, have been consumed there for millennia and are now typically grilled on skewers and dipped in a soy and rice wine sauce.

People are willing to face ever-increasing prices to continue the culinary tradition, driven by significant year-to-year fluctuations in supply.

“Customers understand that it’s a luxury dish,” chef Tomoyuki Takashino said from behind the stove as he skewered an eel he had just killed and filleted.

Unaju, an eel served over rice in a lacquered box, is priced at 5,250 yen (1,090 baht), more than double what the dish might have cost 15 years ago, Takashino said.

Nearly all eels consumed in Japan come from aquaculture, which relies entirely on the capture or import of glass eels because they do not reproduce in captivity.

Catches of glass eels in Japan have dropped to less than 10% of their 1960s levels.

“We buy the glass eels, which we raise in these tanks,” said Takayuki Hiranuma, president of a high-tech aquaculture farm that operates the restaurant.

Behind him, some 80,000 eels are kept in six huge reservoirs in 30C filtered water.

Their weight will increase a thousandfold over 10 months of farming before they are sold or cooked on site.

If eels are listed under Appendix II of the Cites convention, as will be discussed in Uzbekistan, their trade would be more strictly regulated, requiring export permits from the country of origin.

“This is a point that worries us greatly,” Hiranuma said.

Japan argues that it has implemented fishing quotas and farming permits, and cites a study by Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology that says the Japanese eel population has tripled across East Asia since 1990.

“And we are cooperating with China, South Korea, and Taiwan – territories where the Japanese eel lives – to limit the quantities of glass eels captured and improve stock management,” Tetsuya Kawashima, an official from the Japanese Fisheries Agency, told AFP.

A United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization expert advisory panel also said in a report this year that the risk of extinction for Japanese and American eels was “low”.

‘Greatest wildlife crime’

But for Andrew Kerr of the Sustainable Eel Group, such findings fail to take into account eel trafficking, which he calls the “greatest wildlife crime” on the planet.

Due to the fact that eels look alike, “all sorts of games are played pretending it’s one species when it’s another”, he said. “So trafficking can thrive.”

Asian supply has long relied on the smuggling of glass eels from the EU, which banned their export in 2010.

Approximately 100 tonnes of glass eels transit each year, according to the European police agency Europol.

But with the dismantling of illegal supply chains, European supply has diminished and there’s been a rise in shipments from the Caribbean, threatening that population, Kerr warned.

“It’s not about their imminent risk of extinction. It’s about how do we create some sort of world order in the trade of eel. It’s a global game,” he said.

Your spot-on horoscope for work, money and relationship from Guru by the Bangkok Post’s famously accurate fortune teller. Let’s see how you will fare this week and beyond.

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♈ Aries

Mar 21 – Apr 19

(⏰) If a project seems to go nowhere, fresh solutions will surface and things will pick up pace fast. Small glitches and miscommunications may test your patience. Higher-ups may step in with extra support. A surprise challenge may turn into a growth opportunity. 

(₿) Expect good news or support from family or an old friend. Your long-nurtured talent suddenly inspires fresh earning potential. Financial negotiations might drag on, but the outcome will be in your favour. Safe assets and investments bring you peace of mind. 

(♥) Fights are very unlikely while harmony will be on the rise, resulting in more laughter and calm nights together. You two may see each other in a new light. An unexpected occurrence could nudge you both into making big decisions about shared assets or living situations.  

(⚤) You may feel your pulse quicken as sparks fly with someone already spoken for, either a married colleague or a taken friend. You may think that it’s “meant to be”, but it’s a big no. Listen to your head, not your heart. 

♉ Taurus

Apr 20 – May 20

(⏰) A shake-up will throw you into overdrive, but you’ll handle the chaos with mental sharpness and clear communication. A surprise offer to move to another department, relocate or join a new organisation may land on your desk, albeit with little time to decide. Entrepreneurs, a new niche or international partner is on the cards.   

(₿) Extra cash from a new side gig is possible, so be prepared for any opportunities. You can easily cover everyday expenses. A friend may ask for a loan, but you should lend them only if you don’t expect them to repay you.

(♥) Outside pressures will likely seep into your love life. Whether it’s work chaos or family drama, something will demand attention and pull focus from your relationship. Honest and gentle conversations will keep your bond steady.  

(⚤) Already seeing someone? You may lose interest in them. You might be fascinated by someone unexpected, perhaps a foreigner, a single parent or a type far from your usual. However, you may wonder whether you two actually fit. Only time can tell. 

♊ Gemini

May 21 – Jun 20

(⏰) A pile of tasks may land on your desk unexpectedly. A client or higher-up who recognises your talent may trust you with a major project. You’ll tackle it head-on while your creativity, focus and productivity are at their peaks. Job hunting? An opportunity in healthcare, insurance or education may come up. 

(₿) A surprise windfall or thoughtful gift could land in your lap. Someone in your professional circle may drop a golden opportunity. Financial negotiations will soon wrap up and contracts will be promptly signed. Guard your wallet against spiritual scams, Yolo spending and influencer-recommended deals.  

(♥) Your schedules may clash, but the bond remains strong. You two make the most of the time that you get to spend together. New experiences will inject playful and lively energy into your relationship. Your sexy time may be less frequent, but it’s spicy every time. 

(⚤) A change of scene or a dating app swipe might ignite an exciting connection with someone new. A hook-up is likely to happen right away and, once you part ways, the passion will fizzle out in no time, leaving you with only a steamy memory. 

♋ Cancer

Jun 21 – Jul 22

(⏰) Communication mix-ups may happen, so double-check your emails and chats. Be ready for intense meetings and brainstorming sessions where ideas clash but breakthroughs follow. Frictions can fuel growth, fresh vision and renewed momentum. Sudden competition may appear to unlock doors to golden opportunities.  

(₿) A friend from afar might drop good news. Travel may bring an unexpected windfall. Financial talks are going in your favour and money comes into your wallet much more than it goes out. Resist urges to splurge. Looking up videos of people being in debt can help.

(♥) Conversations with your partner will be smooth, making plans together feel effortless and exciting. Fresh adventures and playful vibes will bring you closer, deepening your connection. Your partner may bring a sweet surprise — a thoughtful gift, a loving gesture or even a proposal. 

(⚤) You may find love unexpectedly through fun activities or glittery nights out. However, you will soon realise many differences between you and them that may not be compatible. Dating app users, watch out for scammers with sexy profile pics.

♌ Leo

Jul 23 – Aug 22

(⏰) You’ll tackle old files and pending paperwork faster than expected, turning tedious tasks into quick wins. Your skills will shine and your workflow will get more efficient. With colleagues and clients on your side, your results will exceed the standard bar. Pitching or job interview this week? Only good news awaits. 

(₿) The payment that you’re chasing will finally drop into your bank account. Money comes into your wallet much more than it goes out. You find it easier to manage your earnings, expenses and debts. Expect relief, renewed confidence and a clearer path to financial freedom. 

(♥) Communication with your partner flows smoothly as choices of words are clearer and more heartfelt. A heart-to-heart will melt away old misunderstandings. If family drama has been casting shadows over your relationship, expect to see a satisfying resolution.  

(⚤) Single life won’t feel boring and you aren’t looking to be in a relationship right now. Still, an older female friend may play Cupid, introducing you to someone who seems to be a perfect match. Your natural charm will also turn heads at work or the gym. Keep doing you and stay open for romantic possibilities.

♍ Virgo

Aug 23 – Sept 22

(⏰) Communication breakdowns and nitpicky details result in added pressure. You’ll feel like your colleagues don’t get what you’re pushing for, and a bigwig might strong-arm you into unfavourable deals or deadlines. Fate is setting the stage for you to sharpen your problem-solving skills and flex your resilience. 

(₿) A friendly auntie or big sis in your circle might hook you up with a money-making opportunity, unlock an extra income stream or help you seal a sweet deal. Keep your emotions in check when shopping. Retail therapy and instant gratification could drain your cash quicker than you realise. 

(♥) You two know when to get each other personal space and time. There’s no need to be joined at the hip all the time. Heart-to-heart conversations will reveal what really matters in your relationship. A big decision about money and housing may have to be made together. 

(⚤) A well-meaning friend or cousin could play matchmaker, pairing you up with someone who seems perfect on paper. But the spark may never ignite, leaving you polite in words but meh in your heart. A swipe or DM might spark a meetup, yet the thrill could fade once you meet them IRL without any filter (or photo editing).

♎ Libra

Sept 23 – Oct 22

(⏰) It pays to be patient. Expect tech glitches and messy communication, with colleagues or higher-ups misreading things and causing re-dos and delays. Amid the chaos, a bold new challenge emerges and promises lucrative rewards. From Nov 25-26, be mindful of any crucial documents in your possession.   

(₿) The money you already forgot about will come your way. Someone close will tell you about a great opportunity before anyone else. A financial negotiation may drag on due to paperwork but it still stays the course. Save more as unexpected fines or fees may be around the corner. 

(♥) Expect quality conversations and Insta-worthy moments. Outsiders will look up to you both as their couple goals. Parents and relatives may nudge you two about getting married or procreating. However, you two stick to your pace. 

(⚤) You’ll be craving connection and ready to ditch single life. Still, the path to find someone may feel like a maze of mixed signals and confusing conversations. Your date may expect to pick up the tab before you asked them out.

♏ Scorpio

Oct 23 – Nov 21

(⏰) You know who are drama queens and energy vampires in your office and stay away from them. Their comeuppances are coming so have your popcorn ready. Unexpected shifts and cutting-edge tools will streamline your modus operandi and boost your wins. A higher-up may assign you a big task, hinting at career growth ahead. Entrepreneurs, expect a new niche or partnership with someone abroad. 

(₿) An enticing offer or fresh project will likely land on your desk. A money opportunity you once missed out on could come back. A surprise windfall might land in your lap. You keep your spending and savings in check on track with your long-term goals. 

(♥) Conversations with your partner will lighten up, opening doors to fun adventures. Playful energy will spark deeper closeness, bringing Insta-worthy moments and inspiring a shared dream. Unmarried couples may bring up their plan to wed before their parents. 

(⚤) An unexpected spark might be ignited through a dating app. An old flame could reignite and make your heart skip a beat. You’re unsure of how to deal with these two romantic choices. Explore both with caution and you’ll soon find out the answer.   

♐ Sagittarius

Nov 22 – Dec 21

(⏰) You’re better at reading the office dynamics. Someone influential will quietly have your back and you’ll snag insider info that keeps you ahead of the game. An unexpected change will turn into your advantage or unlock some perks. A business pitch coming up? Prepare to answer hard questions.   

(₿) You’ll find ways to monetise your skills or talents. You know your wants from your needs and spend nothing on your wants this week. A friend might ask for cash, but lending could mean a permanent goodbye. 

(♥) You may wonder whether you and your partner are on the same path. Communication with them will need extra patience and care. Avoid comparisons in terms of careers, success, roles or the Insta-perfect lives of other couples. One careless word could snowball into a fight where you both say things you’ll regret. 

(⚤) You may fall for someone your friend also likes. But they might be more into your friend than you. Don’t let envy ruin your friendship. A smooth talker may approach you but they might be after your wallet, not your heart.

♑ Capricorn

Dec 22 – Jan 19

(⏰) Your exceptional grind puts you in the spotlight with the recognition you truly deserve. You’ll be riding high on confidence and energy, tackling tough projects and unexpected hurdles smoothly. Your professional circle is expanding in all the right directions. New collaborations and connections are brewing to possibly unlock your next career chapter. 

(₿) Financial decisions you made in the past will pay off in solid returns. Some surprise cash could come your way. Pay/rate talks will likely conclude in your favour. Watch out for Yolo spending. 

(♥) You may start a secret affair, but manage to keep your partner blissfully unaware. Still, your love and loyalty for them will hold strong as you balance secret thrills with quality time and heartfelt talks with your main squeeze. 

(⚤) Already seeing someone? You might slowly ghost them. Someone new will inject excitement into your life but first impressions could be misleading. Look out for red flags. Several dates can thin your wallet significantly. 

♒ Aquarius

Jan 20 – Feb 18

(⏰) You’ll juggle priorities, people and resources with efficiency. Your goals will line up clearly and you’ll see real progress with tangible results. Expect your boss to drop a big project on your desk. This isn’t just extra work; it’s a test to see if you’re worthy of the next promotion. You’ll gain insider insights into how your organisation (and industry) really operates, plus you’ll build some valuable new connections along the way.  

(₿) Expect to win a prize from a game or contest, or see extra cash coming your way. A pay or salary negotiation will tilt in your favour. You can easily cover both your usual and unexpected bills. Just avoid lending money or guaranteeing anyone’s debt. It’s not worth the future headache.  

(♥) Expect a beautiful shift in how you and your partner connect. Your vibes sync so well that one emoji or glance feels like a full conversation. You two could be each other’s comfort zone. Expect heartfelt chats about moving in, getting engaged or tying the knot. 

(⚤) You’ll catch the attention of someone whose lifestyle and background differ wildly from yours in more than one way. The chemistry will feel instant, almost cinematic, and you’ll be intrigued by one another. Don’t overthink things. Just enjoy getting to know each other. 

♓ Pisces

Feb 19 – Mar 20

(⏰) An opportunity to level up tech tricks and soft skills awaits. You’ll handle sudden changes without breaking a sweat. Your quick decisions will lead to wins that catch the eyes of higher-ups and clients who want more of what you deliver. Fate may steer you to encounters that unlock new allies, inspiration and lucrative opportunities ahead.  

(₿) Financial talks may stall or shift direction, yet you’ll land a better-than-expected deal. Surprise costs could show up. Lady Luck’s on vacation. Your network of friends and acquaintances brings an opportunity to earn extra cash through behind-the-scenes work.

(♥) Tiny sparks of jealousy or mismatched expectations may flare up, but honest and open talk will smooth things out. Cross-cultural couples discuss where they should settle and start a family. 

(⚤) You get to know new faces online and in real life, but none really makes your heart flutter. You know what you’re looking for in your partner and won’t settle for less. Expect petty drama with someone who sees you as a snob.