Politics

Takaichi Sidesteps Endorsement of Consumption Tax Cut in Party Leaders’ Debate Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not endorse a proposed consumption tax cut during the July 15 party leaders’ debate, …

Japan’s inbound tourism slips 2% in first half of 2026 as Chinese arrivals plunge Japan’s inbound tourism fell 2% to 21.08 million in Jan–Jun 2026, driven by a sharp drop …

Bank of Japan negative interest rate minutes show Kuroda suppressed dissent over ‘surprise’ policy Minutes of 2016 meetings released July 15, 2026, reveal internal conflict over the Bank of Japan …

Male-line succession debate enters Upper House as Imperial Household Law amendment begins Lawmakers open Upper House debate on July 15, 2026 over an amendment to the Imperial Household Law proposing …

Strait of Hormuz blockade resumed as U.S. military restarts interception of ships; Trump abandons 20% toll plan U.S. Central Command announced it would resume a Strait of Hormuz blockade, targeting …

Hokuriku Shinkansen extension likely to adopt Katsuragawa plan, ruling parties set to agree Ruling parties are preparing to endorse the Katsuragawa plan for the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension, proposing a new …

Japan Post bidding scandal: internal probe finds 17 irregular bids since 2021 Japan Post bidding scandal revealed in internal probe after arrest of a former Tokyo branch official; company discloses …

Trump demands 20% fee from ships as U.S. reimposes maritime blockade on Iran U.S. President Donald Trump announced a reinstated maritime blockade on Iran and said the United States will …

Cabinet Approves Revised AI Basic Plan to Strengthen Cybersecurity and Pursue AI Sovereignty Japan approves revised AI basic plan July 14, 2026, tightening cybersecurity, seeking AI sovereignty and prioritizing vertical …