Japan formally revokes Russia's 'most favoured nation' status

Japan also announced plans to phase out imports of Russian coal

Japan formally revoked Russia’s “most favoured nation” trade status on April 20 over its invasion of Ukraine, as Tokyo steps up sanctions amid revelations of the Russian military’s widespread atrocities against civilians.

The stripping of Russia’s trade status is Japan’s latest move against Moscow and was part of a list of sanctions measures which Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced last month, that also included a decision to expel eight Russian diplomats and trade officials.

The revocation of Russia’s trade status by Japan’s Parliament, combined with other sanctions collectively imposed by other countries, is expected to intensify pressure on Russia, but the moves could also prompt reprisals from Moscow.

The revocation of the trade status applies to tariffs on all Russian imports.

Wednesday’s parliamentary decision also included a revision to a foreign exchange law to prevent the transfer of virtual currency held by those subject to asset freezing.

Japan is taking a greater role in the international effort against Russia because of concerns about the impact of the invasion in East Asia, where China’s military has grown increasingly assertive.