Japan loosens arms export rules in break from post-WW2 pacifism

Takaichi stated there was 'absolutely no change' in Japan's commitment to its peace-loving principles, and that under the new system transfers would be promoted with more rigorous judgments; supporters see potential constitutional reforms, including changes to Article 9.

South Korea's foreign ministry said Japan's defence policy should ideally uphold the spirit of the Peace Constitution while contributing to regional peace and stability.

China said it is seriously concerned and will remain highly vigilant and opposed to the move, describing it as reckless militarisation.

The move coincided with Japan's Self-Defence Forces taking part in annual war games between the United States and the Philippines, marking the first time Japan participated as combatants rather than observers.

The government announced it would lift restrictions that limited arms exports to five categories (rescue, transport, warning, surveillance and minesweeping), enabling sales of lethal weapons to the 17 countries with defence agreements, including the US and the UK, with exceptions for conflicts evaluated as 'special circumstances'.

Last year, then-Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi drew Beijing's ire after suggesting in parliament that Japan could respond with its Self-Defence Force if Beijing attacked Taiwan.

In 2023, then-Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expanded policy to allow exports of finished lethal weapons for the first time since World War Two.

In 2014, then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe relaxed a blanket ban on all military sales, allowing joint development with allies and giving Japan's defence industry access to new markets and technology.

Japan's defence posture was written into its post-World War Two constitution in 1947, renouncing war as a means to settle international disputes and stating that Japan will never maintain war potential.