Japan Warns EU Over Intervention in Vaccine Shipments

• By Jennifer Prill
• (General Dispatch) – The Tokyo AP media reported a warning to the European Commission not to interfere with vaccine exports to Japan, despite production difficulties.

• The government minister in charge of Japan’s immunization campaign sent a statement to the commission led by Ursula Von Der Leyen asking it to guarantee the supply of vaccines.

• Such concern is generated in the Asian country after the commission passed a law to block vaccine exports in order to solve the problem of vaccine shortages in Europe.

• Japan’s goal was to obtain a large amount of vaccine before the Olympics, Minister Taro Kono said, “We have been telling them not to affect our friendly relations and I hope the EU will grant massive approval for shipments to Japan.”

• Japan may have a serious shortage of vaccines as it relies solely on imports, with Europe being one of the largest vaccine producers; however they have had conflicts with pharmaceutical companies.

• Japan has a contract for 344 million vaccines between Pfizer and Moderna, which are produced in Europe. On the other hand, the Ministry of Health has tried to find other ways of importing vaccines but has not yet approved the candidate AstraZeneca.

• Minister Taro informed that for now the vaccination campaign will be prioritized for the inhabitants and does not intend to immunize athletes, despite the fact that the Olympic Games will be held.

• However, Japan’s health ministry will not allow foreign spectators to enter, and the CCP has offered to immunize athletes.

Adittional Information:

Breitbart: Japan Warns EU Not to Jeopardise ‘Friendly Relations’ with Vaccine Grab

AP News: AP Interview: Japan urges EU to ensure stable vaccine export