China limits Japanese food imports for public health

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BEIJING, April 19 (Xinhua): Many countries have limited food imports from Japan after its recent nuclear crisis and the Chinese reaction has been "proper" and "moderate" for the protection of public health, China's Ministry of Commerce (MoC) said Tuesday. China banned imports of food, edible farm produce and feed from 12 areas in Japan starting April 8. Importers of these products from other Japanese areas are required to provide documentation, such as proof of origin and quarantine, before they can be allowed to move their products across China's borders. "These measures were based on consideration for public health after emergencies and are moderate in comparison to those imposed by other international communities," MOC spokesman Yao Jian said.