# Astellas employee jailed in China on spy charge

> Japanese executive to be released from China after three-and-a-half-year espionage sentence.
- Title: Astellas employee jailed in China on spy charge · Nikkei Asia
- Summary: Japanese executive to be released from China after three-and-a-half-year espionage sentence.
- Keywords: astellas pharma, japan, china, espionage charges, three-and-a-half-year sentence, Nikkei Asia
- Source: Nikkei Asia — https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/astellas-employee-jailed-in-china-on-spy-charge-set-for-december-release
- Published: 2026-11-07T14:42:26+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: astellas pharma, japan, china, espionage charges, three-and-a-half-year sentence, news, business, world
## Astellas employee jailed in China
A Japanese executive of Astellas Pharma imprisoned in China on espionage charges is expected to be released in mid-December after completing his sentence and immediately deported.
## China's 2023 espionage law changes
China enacted changes to its espionage law in 2023 that broadened the range of activities subject to investigation.
## Jailed employee's sentence duration
The Japanese national served a three-and-a-half-year term after reportedly taking plea.
## Key takeaway

A Japanese Astellas Pharma executive jailed in China on espionage charges will be released in mid-December after completing a three-and-a-half-year sentence and deported.