Commentary / Japan Feb 2, 2023
The importance of the Constitutional Democratic Party’s visit to Taiwan
by Ross Darrell Feingold
Taiwan needs a broader base of supporters other than just conservatives in key partner countries to keep it safer.
National / Politics | FOCUS Feb 1, 2023
If Kishida's approval ratings remain in a rut, who might succeed him as prime minister?
by Gabriele Ninivaggi
Lawmakers like Taro Kono and Shigeru Ishiba might be popular with the public, but whether they can garner support from within their party is a major question mark.
National Jan 30, 2023
Parliament begins budget talks amid focus on Kishida's tax plans
by Eric Johnston
Attention is increasingly turning to when Kishida might call an election, especially given the divisive issue of tax hikes to pay for increased defense spending and child care policies.
National | EXPLAINER Jan 27, 2023
Defense spending rise puts spotlight on redemption rule of JGBs
by Gabriele Ninivaggi
Some in the LDP argue that the extra funding can be secured by changing the redemption period of government bonds from 60 to 80 years.
National Jan 25, 2023
'It is unthinkable that Russia would lose the war,' the gaffe-prone politician said in a speech at a reception.
National Jan 25, 2023
CDP questions Kishida on defense spending, nuclear power and child care
by Eric Johnston and Kanako Takahara
Calling for a snap election, the CDP's Kenta Izumi blasted the prime minister for pursuing a tax hike for defense spending without parliamentary discussion.
National / Politics Jan 24, 2023
Japan Lower Chamber chief denies dubious ties with Unification Church
Should the opposition camp keep adopting a hard-line approach toward the lawmaker, Kishida's government is likely to encounter difficulties in promoting his key policies.
National / Politics | FOCUS Jan 24, 2023
Kishida's focus on child care leads to speculation over sales tax hike
by Satoshi Iizuka
Many fear a consumption tax hike could drag down business and household spending, hampering economic growth.
National / Politics Jan 23, 2023
In policy speech, Kishida puts focus on child care and defense
by Kanako Takahara
Implementing all of the policies mentioned in the speech — from child care and defense spending to wage hikes — will be tough if Kishida lacks a stable political base.
National | ANALYSIS Jan 22, 2023
Kishida heads into parliamentary session with packed — and divisive — agenda
by Eric Johnston
Contentious debates in the Diet over increased defense spending, policies aimed at children and extending the life of nuclear reactors could ultimately seal the prime minister's fate.
National Jan 17, 2023
LDP lawmakers to set up group to promote Japan's defense exports
The move comes after the government last month revised its key defense documents, including the National Security Strategy, a long-term policy guideline.
National / Politics Jan 17, 2023
With Kishida criticism, Suga steps back onto Japan's political stage
by Gabriele Ninivaggi
The former prime minister broke his monthslong silence to express his discontent with Kishida’s decision to remain as an LDP faction leader.