Group 1 - Japanese companies are increasingly cautious about investing in China due to the risk of employee detentions, with at least 17 Japanese nationals detained in the past decade [1][2] - Following the detention of an employee from Astellas Pharma in March 2023, Japanese firms have implemented emergency measures, including avoiding unnecessary business trips to China [1][2] - The attitude of Japanese companies has shifted from "blind fear" to "rational vigilance," as they develop self-protection strategies for employees traveling to China [1][2] Group 2 - Since the implementation of China's Anti-Espionage Law in 2014, the scrutiny of foreigners has intensified, leading to a significant decline in direct investment from Japan to China, with net investment dropping by 63% over three years [2] - A survey by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in 2024 revealed that only 33% of Japanese companies are considering expanding or starting new businesses in China, the lowest level since 2013 [2] Group 3 - Concerns about safety in China have risen among Japanese nationals, with a notable decline in the number of Japanese residents in China, falling below 100,000 for the first time in 20 years [3] - Incidents involving foreign nationals, including the detention of employees from Mintz Group and a South Korean individual, highlight ongoing risks for expatriates in China [3]