日政府拟参考执政党建议提出增加防卫费

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." 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 2026 fiscal year's GDP. Additionally, regarding the "Three Non-Nuclear Principles," which state that Japan will not possess, manufacture, or allow nuclear weapons to be brought into the country, the Japan Innovation Party indicated that "realistic discussions should be conducted," mentioning potential 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. 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 fiscal allocation logic of prioritizing military buildup over civilian welfare deviates from Japan's post-war peaceful development path and will severely affect Japan's economic growth.