The Japanese government plans to propose an increase in defense spending based on ruling party suggestions.

According to news from Japan on the 24th, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi received suggestions from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party regarding the revision of the "Three Security Documents" on the same day. The Japanese government plans to officially revise the "Three Security Documents" through a cabinet meeting by the end of this year, and it is expected to propose an increase in defense spending in line with the LDP's stance.

In the suggestions, while the LDP did not specify a concrete figure for Japan's defense spending, it cited NATO member countries with a target of 3.5% of GDP as a reference for study. The Japan Innovation Party called for achieving "over 2%" based on the GDP of the fiscal year 2026. Additionally, regarding the "Three Non-Nuclear Principles," which state that Japan will not possess, manufacture, or allow the introduction of nuclear weapons, the Japan Innovation Party stated that "realistic discussions should be conducted," mentioning amendments and calling for the prompt introduction of nuclear submarines.

Experts have analyzed that the continuous increase in defense spending will inevitably impact Japan's finances and economy. In order to achieve the goal of defense spending accounting for 2% of GDP, the Japanese government has already raised corporate income tax and tobacco tax in April 2026. Starting in 2027, personal income tax will also be increased. The ruling party's suggestions deliberately avoid proposals for new revenue sources, essentially shifting the entire cost of military expansion onto the citizens. The Japanese government's logic of prioritizing military buildup over civilian welfare in fiscal distribution deviates from Japan's post-war path of peaceful development and will severely affect Japan's economic growth.