Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has vowed to strengthen ties with the United States under President Donald Trump and adopt a tougher stance on China and immigration. In her first policy address to parliament, Takaichi, Japan’s first woman leader, promised to elevate the Japan-US relationship to “new heights” while committing to increased defense spending and addressing domestic economic challenges.
Takaichi confirmed that defense expenditure will reach 2% of Japan’s GDP this fiscal year—two years ahead of schedule. She cited the growing military activities of China, North Korea, and Russia as a “grave concern,” stressing the need to protect Japan’s role in maintaining a free and stable international order. China’s foreign ministry, however, criticized Tokyo’s expanding defense budget, questioning Japan’s commitment to peaceful development.
On domestic policy, Takaichi said Japan must rely on foreign workers to combat severe labor shortages but vowed stricter enforcement of immigration rules. She condemned illegal activities by some foreigners while rejecting xenophobia, saying her government will “draw a clear line” against discrimination. The new cabinet also introduced a ministerial post to oversee coexistence with foreign nationals, signaling a more structured approach to immigration policy.
Takaichi also addressed Japan’s economic struggles, pledging to ease the cost-of-living crisis and stimulate growth amid rising inflation. Official data showed consumer prices rose 2.9% in September, intensifying public concern. While she supports fiscal stimulus, Takaichi said monetary policy decisions would remain under the Bank of Japan’s control as it continues to normalize its policies.
Her leadership, marked by conservative values and pro-growth economics, has sparked optimism in financial markets but faces scrutiny over Japan’s balancing act between U.S. alliance commitments and regional tensions with China.