Japanese cosmetics maker sorry for ‘No Chinese’ sign

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A famous Japanese cosmetics maker apologized over accusation of discrimination against Chinese people.

The apology from Pola came after a photo of the poster saying “No entry by Chinese people” had been shared on Weibo, China's Twitter-like platform.

The message was hand written in red-lettered Japanese, although it would be readily understandable to Chinese readers.

The sign saying “No entry by Chinese people” is posted on the door of a Pola retailer. /Photo via Weibo

The incident allegedly took place in Aichi Prefecture of Japan, a popular destination for Chinese seeking jobs in the country.

“We are sincerely sorry and regret that an inappropriate poster ... has caused unpleasant feelings and nuisance to many people,” Pola said in a statement issued on its official website on Saturday in both Japanese and Chinese.

The company also said the poster has been removed and it would suspend operations at the shop and punish those responsible as soon as they confirm the facts of the matter. The shop has been allegedly closed on Saturday night.

After disclosing the case, Weibo blogger @JapaneseFoodInformation claimed it received a private message online from a netizen, saying that “a Chinese staff inconsequently bought Pola products with staff discount and sell them to customers, irritating the shopkeeper.”

However, it seems hard for Chinese social media users to accept the “explanation.”

“The poster involves racial discrimination, no matter the reason. Finger should be pointed on to those who violate the provision, but not the race as a whole,” said Weibo user @Chibianshijieshangsuoyoudehaochide.

“To be honest, I absolutely do not favor the brand now,” said another Weibo user @Aruanruana.

Japan has been a rife country for Chinese visitors in recent years, many of whom love to purchase made-in-Japan products like cosmetics.

Pola, a main pillar of globally operating Pola Orbis Holdings, is trying to expand into China market.