# Astellas employee to be released from China prison in December

> Japanese Astellas Pharma employee set for December release from China prison after espionage sentence.
- Title: Astellas employee to be released from China prison in December
- Summary: Japanese Astellas Pharma employee set for December release from China prison after espionage sentence.
- Keywords: astellas pharma, china, japan, espionage, prison release, december 14, The Japan Times
- Source: The Japan Times — https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/11/08/japan/astellas-employee-release-december
- Author: No Author
- Published: 2026-11-08T03:01:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: astellas pharma, china, japan, espionage, prison release, december 14, news, politics, world
## Astellas employee
A Japanese Astellas Pharma employee sentenced to three years and six months in prison for espionage in China is expected to be released on Dec. 14.
## Detained in March 2023
The employee was suddenly detained by Chinese authorities in March 2023 when he was about to leave China after the end of his Beijing assignment.
## Indicted in August 2024
He was indicted in August 2024 following his detention in China.
## Release date confirmed
Final arrangements are being made to release the employee of the Japanese pharmaceutical company in his 60s on December 14.
## Key takeaway

A Japanese Astellas Pharma employee sentenced to three years and six months in China for espionage will return to Japan on December 14.