China has issued a mandate for its airline companies to scale back flights heading to Japan, stirring tension in the transportation sector. The specifics of the directive, including its rationale and date of commencement, are yet to be divulged. This move is expected to impact the travel related businesses and economic activities between the two countries.

This directive from China has raised concerns among the Japanese populace and industry experts, hinging on the economic and diplomatic implications. As one of the major travel destinations for Chinese tourists, Japan’s tourism sector, significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, may suffer further blows. This could in turn impact the recovery of the Japanese economy.

In contrast, the US and EU generally don't issue such explicit instructions to its airlines except when necessitated by safety concerns or geopolitical tensions. Statements from the authorities usually remain in the advisory domain, with the final decision often resting with individual airlines.