The policy shift lifts restrictions that limited arms exports to just five categories—rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and minesweeping—according to sources. Japan can now sell lethal weapons to the 17 countries with whom it has defense agreements, including the U.S. and the U.K., sources say. A ban on arms sales to countries involved in conflict will remain, but authorities say they will allow for exceptions 'in special circumstances', though the specifics of those circumstances have not been detailed.
The new arms export rules were announced as Japan's Self-Defence Forces took part in annual war games between the U.S. and the Philippines, with Japan joining as combatants for the first time instead of mere observers, according to sources. This participation marks a significant shift in Japan's military posture, though its immediate impact on regional dynamics is unclear.
In an increasingly severe security environment, no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone.
China has expressed strong opposition to these developments. Beijing's foreign ministry stated it is 'seriously concerned' about what it described as Japan's 'reckless militarisation'. According to the ministry, China will remain highly vigilant and resolutely opposed to the move. China has also opposed the U.S.-Philippines war games, claiming that they would deepen divisions in the region.
Domestically, opponents argue the change violates Japan's pacifist constitution and will increase global tensions and threaten the safety of the Japanese people. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed these concerns, saying, 'In an increasingly severe security environment, no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone.' However, she also emphasized there was 'absolutely no change in our commitment to upholding the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for over 80 years since the war'. Takaichi added, 'Under the new system, we will strategically promote equipment transfers while making even more rigorous and cautious judgments on whether transfers are permissible.'
However, she also said there was 'absolutely no change in our commitment to upholding the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for over 80 years since the war'.
Internationally, the policy change has been largely welcomed by Japan's defense partners like Australia and attracted interest from Southeast Asia and Europe, according to sources, though the specific countries expressing interest have not been named. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated the move was 'intended to safeguard Japan's security and further contribute to the peace and stability of the region'. The immediate impact on Japan's arms industry and export deals remains uncertain, as does the potential for legal or constitutional challenges from opponents.
Under the new system, we will strategically promote equipment transfers while making even more rigorous and cautious judgments on whether transfers are permissible.
The move was 'intended to safeguard Japan's security and further contribute to the peace and stability of the region'.
China will remain highly vigilant and resolutely opposed [to the move].