Japan scraps arms export ban

In a major break from its long-standing pacifist tradition, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s cabinet has authorized the overhaul of Japan's defense export guidelines.

The move is designed to bolster the domestic arms industry and deepen security cooperation with international partners amid rising regional threats from China and North Korea.

While the government emphasized it will continue to uphold international law, the decision has sparked warnings from Beijing against 'moves towards militarism.' Allies, however, have welcomed the change as a step toward enhanced collective security and industrial resilience.