Japanese opposition leaders have intensified criticism of the ruling coalition's proposal to ease arms export restrictions, warning the move could undermine the nation's postwar pacifist principles. The Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, agreed on December 22 to revise defense equipment transfer guidelines, potentially allowing exports beyond the current five noncombat categories. The proposal is expected to reach cabinet review in February 2026.
Katsuya Okada, senior adviser to the Constitutional Democratic Party, cautioned during a NHK appearance that abolishing category restrictions could enable lethal weapons exports, stating: 'Expanding defense budgets combined with relaxed export rules risks creating a military-industrial complex.'
Japanese Communist Party policy chief Taku Yamazoe accused Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration of 'positioning the military as an economic pillar,' warning the changes would transform Japan into a 'merchant of death.' Opposition figures emphasize maintaining Japan's constitutional commitment to pacifism amid growing regional security concerns.
The proposed revisions follow reports from Nikkei Shimbun suggesting expanded exports could include lethal equipment. Domestic debate continues as the government balances economic opportunities with historical security postures, while neighboring countries monitor developments closely.
