“Japan” opens door to weapons exports, Targets global defense market

Today (April 21, 2026), Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi revealed that the Japanese government has amended its arms export restrictions, signaling a significant shift in Japan's strategy for boosting its defense sector and fostering alliances amid the Middle East crisis.

The declaration of eased restrictions on arms and defense technology exports marks a dramatic departure in Japan's security policy, which has been pacifist since the end of World War II. It will considerably assist arms businesses in accessing larger worldwide markets, going beyond prior export permissions limited to rescue, transportation, and surveillance operations. The updated laws will apply to fighter jets, missiles, and warships.

“In an increasingly severe security environment, no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone,” Prime Minister Takaichi stated via social media.

The export of these lethal weapons will be limited to countries that follow United Nations regulations. Several European countries are now exploring similar steps. Countries with the eligibility to purchase Japanese-made weaponry include the United States, the United Arab Emirates, India, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

George Glass, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, stated on social media that, “This historic step will not only enhance the defense capabilities of countries collaborating with the Japan-U.S. alliance but also strengthen our collective capacity to maintain peace throughout the region and safeguard freedom even further.”

However, the adjustment drew criticism that the government should have obtained legislative consent to prevent Japan from being entangled in the U.S.-Iran confrontation. The government insists on rigorous post-sales inspections and regulations on the export of lethal weapons to war-torn countries, with exceptions made only if it is deemed in Japan's best interests.

Source: Al Jazeera