New Prime Minister Signals Hardline Stance on China Amid Economic and Security Challenges
Tokyo, Oct 24 (TheTrendingPeople.com): Japan’s new conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi vowed Friday to take Japan-US relations to new heights under President Donald Trump while taking a tough stance on China and signalling stricter enforcement of immigration rules.
Speaking in her first policy address to the Lower House of Parliament, Takaichi, Japan’s first woman premier, announced that the government will allocate two percent of GDP to defence this fiscal year, achieving the national security target two years ahead of schedule.
“We will build a relationship of trust with the United States during President Trump’s visit, elevating the Japan-US relationship to new heights,” Takaichi said, highlighting her government’s commitment to security cooperation.
The announcement comes just three days before Trump is scheduled to visit Japan on his way to talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea.
China and Regional Security Concerns
Takaichi, a known China hawk, highlighted military activities in China, North Korea, and Russia as “grave concerns.”
“The free, open, and stable international order is being profoundly shaken by historic shifts in the balance of power and intensifying geopolitical competition,” she said.
China’s foreign ministry criticized Japan’s defence budget increase and relaxed arms export rules, warning that such moves “raise doubts among Asian neighbours and the international community about Japan’s commitment to a defensive posture.”
Immigration and Domestic Challenges
On domestic issues, Takaichi acknowledged Japan’s labour shortages and the need for foreign workers, but signaled stricter enforcement against illegal activities by foreigners.
“Some illegal activities and breaches of rules by certain foreigners have created unease. While we draw a clear line from xenophobia, the government will respond resolutely to such acts,” she said.
The populist Sanseito party, which supports strong immigration controls, has gained ground in recent elections. Takaichi appointed Kimi Onoda to oversee the newly designated role for harmonious coexistence with foreign nationals, countering online misinformation suggesting mass deportations.
Economic Pressures and Rising Inflation
Takaichi faces the dual challenge of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Consumer prices climbed 2.9 percent in September, up from 2.7 percent in August. She promised to ease cost-of-living pressures but gave few specifics in Friday’s address.
While she advocates increased government spending and looser monetary policy to spur growth, she confirmed that monetary decisions remain with the Bank of Japan, which is concerned about US tariffs’ impact on corporate profits and wages.
“Monetary policy decisions are left to the Bank of Japan. However, the economy faces pressures from rising prices and US trade actions,” noted Abhijit Surya of Capital Economics.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Japan’s new leadership under Sanae Takaichi signals a clear pivot toward stronger US ties, enhanced defence readiness, and cautious immigration management, balancing national security with economic realities. With a flatlining economy, rising inflation, and heightened geopolitical tensions, her government faces a delicate balancing act that will influence Asia’s strategic landscape in the months ahead.