Japan Scraps Arms Export Ban

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government stated the move is necessary to strengthen the domestic defense industry amid rising security challenges from China and North Korea.

Tokyo plans to prioritize exports to close allies and partners to bolster regional security cooperation.

The decision has sparked protests among Japan's youth, who argue the move undermines the nation's pacifist constitution.

Despite the policy change, officials emphasized that Japan will continue to uphold strict standards to ensure weapons are not used in active global conflicts.