Japan ends decades-old ban on lethal arms exports

TOKYO, April 21 (YPA) – The Japanese government announced on Tuesday an amendment to its “Three Principles” on the transfer of defense equipment, effectively permitting the export of lethal weapons and finished defense products for the first time since the end of World War II.

This landmark decision marks a significant departure from previous restrictions that limited exports to five specific non-combat categories, such as search and rescue, surveillance, and minesweeping.

By allowing the transfer of all defense equipment in principle, the government aims to bolster national defense and revitalize the domestic arms industry as a key driver of economic growth.

Supporters argue that the move will integrate Tokyo more deeply into international defense supply chains amid rising regional instability; however, the decision has sparked domestic controversy.

Critics have accused Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of undermining the nation’s long-standing pacifist identity that has defined its global stance for decades.

YPA